USN Denims (WWII)

[OttoGator]

A pair here for review. New to the USN collecting game - would this pair be PX WWII issue? Thank you all so much for the opportunity to learn.

[jerry_k]

Pair mentioned here: 

 

[jerry_k]

Another nice late-war pair with slash pockets on Ebay right now... 

 

 

 

 

 

Manufactured around aug. 1944

 

[jerry_k]

Here's yet another example of a "high-level" vintage seller not doing their homework:

https://themajorstailor.com/products/us-navy-pre-war-chambray-shirt-with-flap-pockets-mint-condition

 

"This particular example is a pre-WW2 pattern, instantly recognizable with triangular-bottomed pockets, pocket flaps, and small gray buttons. These can be seen being worn by sailors in Pearl Harbor in photos taken on Dec 7th, 1941."

 

The problem is that this 55-S-20B type shirt was introduced well after Pearl Harbor—in the spring 1942. Per the 1941 regulations, the correct shirt for Pearl Harbor is the 55-S-20A, but that one has short sleeves!

Of course, we can see some long-sleeved shirts before 1942, but they are mostly PX examples...

 

USS Nevada BB-36 while beached in Pearl Harbor six days after the Japanese attack - December 13, 1941

 

13 Dec 1941 great example of short sleeve regulation shirt 55-S-20A and PX long-sleeved examples:

 

USS Nevada Sep. 1941

 

These vintage guys have really make his own research better before making his site description and making money on it... 🤦‍♂️

[DD937]

I have never seen these Dec 13 pics before, several things stand out to me. The odd assortment of uniform parts being worn in THI ie watch caps, knitted jerseys. The big thing to me is the number of rolled cuffs on the dungaree pants and the belt buckles worn off of the gig line. It seems as if this was a group of sailors who had to wear uniforms newly issued from clothing stores and the off center belt buckle trends toward ammunition handlers. The guy with the white belt and the dude with the dressing robe add intrigue. I wonder if these guys lost their personal goods in the Dec 7th fight? 

[jerry_k]

Great shot of pilot from VBF-85 USS Shangri La and enlisted sailor with second pattern of denim pants with slash interior pockets. Lovley stenciled as well...

 

Closer view