The U. S. Navy developed and used many different styles of cold weather gear and clothing during the 1940’s. Winter jackets, commonly referred to as “Deck Jackets,” were issued to US Navy sailors throughout the war. Most of the deck jackets used in WWII evolved from this very design we feature here, the 1942 Winter Jacket.

By the time America was actually at war in 1942, it was concluded that Navy personal who found themselves on shore or beach landing operations needed to be instantly and obviously recognized as U. S. Navy personnel when viewed mixed-in with various Army troops.

Likewise, the USN had such different working uniforms from the U. S. Army, that it was also feared GI’s unfamiliar with the Navy clothing might mistake USN personnel on the beach as enemy troops. This potentially deadly situation was rectified in late 1942, whereby the upper back area was boldly printed with “U. S. NAVY", a detail that was continued on the 1943 hook-front jacket and the first N-1-style deck jacket.

This 1942 Deck Jacket became synonymous with WWII U. S. Navy operations around the world. But it is the D-Day landings in Normandy, France on 6 June 1944, where we see so many of this jacket style in one place, being the typical garment of choice among the assault and support boat crews who made that final run in to the deadly shores of Omaha.

This model is an all-American classic that looks as great today as it did in 1944. Original examples in nice shape are extremely hard to find, and command high prices within the collectors market.

This Buzz Rickson’s reproduction superbly captures all of the nuances and features found on a vintage original example. Grab a piece of 20th century American history while they last!

Take note of these authentic features:

• Exact copy of original USN contract label design printed on all-cotton fabric.

• Exact duplication of the original silver silk-screened marking “U.S. NAVY” applied to upper back.

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, heavy, corded cotton outer shell to precisely match USN specs.

• 100% cotton thread construction.

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, dark navy blue melton wool lining to precisely match 1940’s USN specs.

• Two external “D-style” hand-warmer patch pockets lined with the correct dark blue cotton broadcloth.

• GENUINE, New-Old-Stock 1942 nickel CONMAR zipper.

• Waterproof celluloid plastic inner liner sandwiched between lining and shellshell, exactly as per the original design.

• Large wind flap protector located behind zip.

• Custom manufacturing of the correct, two-ply 100% worsted wool for all knit trim parts.

• Eyelet vents in armpits.

Sizes: 36 - 44

IMPORTANT: This style runs rather large by at least a full size
So for example, a chest measuring 42” would order a size 40 and still have plenty of room.
Accordingly, a size 44 is easily ok for someone who is 46, possibly 48.