SSI Puzzle

[R. Watkins]

While doing research into the 3dBombGp I came across the attached image. A few inquiries established that this

photo was taken in Japan circa 1950, and what caught my eye was the SSI on the upper right shoulder of the Staff Sergeant

seated at the end of the table (viewers left). As this location is generally reserved for an overseas patch, I found myself

unable to recognize the unit, and a bit more digging turned up the fact that this individual had served with the U.S.

Navy during WWII, and with a closer look at this patch does appear to look like a USN emblem.

 

My question is; Was it common for individuals who had served overseas with another branch of service to display the

emblem of that branch on the right shoulder of their uniform after re-enlisting in a the USAF or US Army?

 

Thanks.

[Wake1941]

Definitely not common Ive found the Ex Navy personnel patches from time to time. Definitely a neat pic, Ive seen Seabees who entered the army and displayed their Seabees patch on their dress uniform.

[R. Watkins]

Definitely not common Ive found the Ex Navy personnel patches from time to time. Definitely a neat pic, Ive seen Seabees who entered the army and displayed their Seabees patch on their dress uniform.

 

Thanks for the quick responce.

It sound as if this was another of those 'allowed' verses 'approved' uniform regs.

 

Do you happen to recognize the specific SSI affixed to the Sergeants Ike jacket?

 

[vintageproductions]

The one in the front right is wearing a 5th AF

[patches]

While the patch or patches themselves were Uncommon, the practice of wearing them was Common Enough, and was perfectly authorized.

 

Look here.

 

http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/166035-uncommon-and-obscure-combat-patches-being-worn/

[R. Watkins]

The one in the front right is wearing a 5th AF

 

Spot-on! The 3dBombGp had served with the Fifth AF throughout WWII. Following the war the 3d served first

with the 314thCompWg (1946-1948) and later (1947-) with the Far East Air Forces during the Korean War, operating

first from Iwakuni, Japan and later from Kunsan, Korea.

In the Korean war photos I have reviewed to date, the Fifth AF SSI is still apparent on the left sleeve of the uniforms of

3dBombGp personnel during the period 1950-1953.

 

[R. Watkins]

While the patch or patches themselves were Uncommon, the practice of wearing them was Common Enough, and was perfectly authorized.

 

Look here.

 

http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/166035-uncommon-and-obscure-combat-patches-being-worn/

 

I see what you mean. I always thought the wearing of an Overseas SSI on the upper right sleeve of any U.S

uniform was pretty strictely regulated, but based upon what I've seen on the page you posted, such is not the case.

Thanks for your posting.