Painted WWII American A-2 Flight Jackets have realized unprecedented prices in the past year. For example jackets at Rock Island Auctions sold in 2022 for $32,000 and $23,000 respectively they can be found at this and this . When comparing the Rock Island Auction jackets with the one offered here, one can easily see that our offering is an exceptional value!

Original Item: One-of-a-Kind. This is a wonderful WWII American painted patch A-2 leather flight jacket attributed to a member of “The Dragon Lady”, a B-17 Flying Fortress that saw heavy combat during WWII. James W. Eversole Jr served as a Co-Pilot with the 379th Bomb Group, 526th Bomb Squadron, 8th Air Force. He flew 19 missions on this aircraft.

The A-2 jacket is in fantastic, service worn condition with fantastic painted insignia. The front left chest features a lovely 526th Bomb Squadron insignia which consists of a divebombing eagle dropping a bomb. The paint has not been retained very well, but well enough to be identified.

Jacket is in size US 40 and has retained all original components including original knit waist band and sleeve cuffs, something we often see replaced on A-2 jackets that saw extensive service. Also original is the TALON brand zipper which is still functional. As stated, the jacket saw extensive service and the condition reflects that. There is cracking scattered throughout the exterior leather, especially on the shoulder areas.

The interior lining does have tearing and stitching loss present, so do handle it with care. The top rear back portion of the liner still retains the original tag beneath the name which reads as:

JAMES W. EVERSOLE JR

TYPE A2
DRAWING No. 30-1415
?????????????
POUGHKEEPSIE LEATHER
COAT CO. INC.
POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y.
PROPERTY
AIR FORCE U.S. ARMY
40

This is an incredible example of a hard to find painted A-2 jacket, offered in wonderful condition. Comes more than ready for further research and display. 

Approximate measurements: Size 40