Rising Sun

We are continuing our leather jackets blogging marathon with a very important, collectible type: A-2. The A-2 is the quintessential bomber jacket. It was Army Air Corps regulation flight jacket in 1931 as an update from its predecessors and went on to become the legendary leather jacket that today is mostly associated with American heroes in World War II. Today modern A-2, genuine issue jackets are permitted for aircrew personnel who have completed their mission qualifications. In civilian life the A-2 silhouette and styling have become popular with motorcyclists by the 50′s. Vintage A-2 are prized for their relative rarity, horse or steer leather (compared to goatskin on modern issues) and slimmer fit.

This particular piece in the Rising Sun Archive is made of horsehide tanned to a nice russet color. According to government specifications the back panel is a single piece of leather, the front is two, and the sleeves are two pieces each. The patch pocket with flaps each have snaps. The original knit cuffs and waist are also to government specs. The lining is an olive drab poplin.

An Acme Thunderer whistle is attached to the jacket via a hook and eye closure. If the wearer were to become stranded in dangerous terrain the whistle would help the search and rescue team locate him.  How do we know it was a him? “Harold W. Lindt” is written on the inside.

All in all a fantastic piece full of research and inspiration value.