curious if these wings are WWII

[R Michael]

Hello all I just got a CBI cut down with these wings on it. I am curious if these are WWII. I have a feeling they are not. No real reason other than they are a bit different than the few other period wings I have. Well anyway any opinions are appreciated.

 

Thanks, Mike

[MikeK]

Hi Mike,

 

The I21 marking indicates VN period but even unmarked, the distinctive feathering "cuts" are from a purely post-WW2 USAF design.

 

Regards

Mike

[militarymodels]

Hello Mike,

Based on the pattern, the construction, and the marking on the back, I would say no, they're not WW2 wings.

Regards,

Lonnie

[R Michael]

Lonnie and Mike, Many thanks! You confirmed my feelings about them. The good thing is the uniform did have wings on it for a very long time so I am sure someone added these to an already imprinted uniform.

 

Thanks again, Mike

[WPAFB]

Post 1965 by International Insignia Corp of provenance, RI. They are still in business and currently are a subcontractor to Vanguard. They make all kinds of US insignia. Here is a link to their website. I suggest you look at the Process section. The last few pictures are very telling who they make their insignia for.

 

http://www.internationalinsignia.com/index.asp

[TRR]

Just for reference: the single digit hallmarks started around 1960 the double digit around 1965. Of course there will be exception to every rule, but that will give you a general idea when something with a number hallmark was made.

 

A nice pair of wings and perhaps even the Vet himself replaced a pair he had lost or gave away.

[WPAFB]

The exception to the rule is easy to figure out.

14C - is where the two digits are before the letter which is the same as a single digit and one letter 1954-1965.

I21 is where the letter is first, followed by a two digit number and that would mean after 1965.