The M1943 Field Jacket was an extremely innovative jacket back when
it was introduced. Before, most militaries used wool serge uniforms
that looked nice on the parade ground, but were not practical in field
conditions. The US had been moving towards a field jacket for a time,
first copying civilian windbreakers, leading to the M41, but the M43
represented a radical departure from that concept with its roomy
4-pocket layout, which allowed soldiers to carry far more than previous
field jackets, and most importantly, enabled them to layer clothing
underneath to dress for the weather. This concept was so successful
that nearly every western military had some derivative of the cotton
field jacket in use after WW2. The Americans continued iterating on the
M-43 to create the M51 and M65 field jackets, which were used into the
early years of the 21st Century.
Yes, that WW2 pocket
litter is included! I found a 1944 penny, Army Motion Picture Service
ticket stub, and napkin (no evidence of snot fortunately) in the left
pocket (as worn), so this jacket was issued and worn, but not for very
much. It is so fresh and minty that the cutter's tags are still stapled
onto the garment in some areas. Obviously, there are no rips, holes,
tears or other major
faults, beyond a little storage wear and perhaps patina expected for its
age. The Second World War is now about 70 years behind us. Historical artifacts like this are not going
to be any easier to find. Buy now to own a piece of history!
Please see my other listings for more awesome militaria
items from all modern eras. If you buy
or win multiple items from me, please message me about combined shipping.