During World War
II, pilots and air crews had lots of time on their hands, and they used some of that time
to personalize their aircraft and jackets. Where ever American flyers were
stationed, they made copies of their insignia using local sources of embroidered, painted,
and hand cut and sewn leather.
We have duplicated some of the most famous
leather and embroidered patches like those worn by the Flying Tigers and the Eagle
Squadrons, brave American volunteers who fought in Asia and Europe before the United
States entered World War II. These patches have been carefully reproduced from
original patches using materials and techniques like those used during W.W.II. The
results are the most beautiful handcrafted patches you have ever seen. |
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| Credit for these patches must go to Dave
Marshall, a leather jacket aficionado and good friend, whose persistent urging, patient
teaching, and relentless effort created these works of art. Dave poured his 15 years
experience as Curator of Personal Equipment at the International Aerospace Hall of Fame
into these patches. He spent countless hours searching leather wholesalers' dusty
shelves for leather with the right color, thickness, texture, and finish and even more
hours making sure these patches are perfect. |
Your historical patch
will arrive is this elegant
presentation folder along with the history of the
patch and unit that wore it. The folder measures
8 1/2 by 11 inches and displays a collection of
authentic military gear and photos.
See if you can identify
all the equipment in the photo. Can you tell us what aircraft
the compass came from?
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