I picked up this Navy crackerjack at an antique store while visiting family and paid $10 for it because it struck me as unusual. I have never come across a U.S. Marine Corps division patch on a Navy uniform, so I am hoping someone here can shed some light on it. The patch is machine sewn and sits evenly aligned with the shoulder seam and makes me question whether it was added later or could have some legitimate context such as a corpsman or attached personnel. I'm a bit skeptical that someone would go through the effort of adding a patch in this manner just to sell it unlabeled for $10 in an antique shop among team jerseys and tank tops. The uniform itself does not have much in the way of identification, just the last name “BIRCH.” Any insight, opinions, or comparable examples would be appreciated. I could be wrong in my assumption; this is just pretty weird. 

You should be dead chuffed at how that's looking Ken.  So will it be screen down when finished ? Kevin

Thanks very much!

Army (magazine) 1966 Green Book: A Status Report on the U.S. Army. Here's a PDF

Yes sir he did.  

News    

Hello everyone, After a week of intense research and technical examination, I am coming to this respected community to share a once-in-a-lifetime discovery. I am from Pilsen, Czech Republic—the city liberated by the U.S. Army in 1945. My family and my city owe a debt of gratitude to the American soldiers who gave us our freedom. Today, I believe I am holding a piece of that shared history: a Bio-Harness Hardware Prototype from the Aero Medical Laboratory at Wright-Patterson AFB (1953-1955). This is not just a garment; it is a laboratory instrument from the "Zero Phase" of space exploration. Technical Specifications & Examination Report: 1. Chronological and Geographical Context: Period: 1953–1955 (Pre-NASA era, the birth of bio-astronautics). Location: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB), Ohio, USA; specifically the Aero Medical Laboratory. Context: Classified physiological testing of human limits conducted under the supervision of Dr. Randy Lovelace. 2. Material and Quality (Strategic Grade): Fabric: 100% premium wool with London Shrunk finish (high weight, shape memory, extreme durability). The garment is exceptionally heavy and stiff, maintaining its shape like armor. Protective Elements: Internal collar and cuffs lined with grey satin and silk. Significance: This is not fashion. The satin was designed to protect the pilot's skin from severe abrasions caused by early pressure suit gaskets and biometric sensors during high-altitude testing. 3. Technical Modifications (Laboratory Hardware): Biometric Ports: Hand-stitched, reinforced openings on the cuffs without corresponding buttons. These served as outlets for telemetric cables (ECG, pulse, respiration) leading from the pilot's body to laboratory measuring instruments. Internal Instrument Slot: A concealed, hand-stitched pocket inside the chest pocket, underneath the flap. Designed to securely hold a dosimeter (radiation) or mechanical timers, ensuring they remained fixed during high-G centrifuge testing. 4. Identification Marks (Codes and Ciphers): Hand-stitched "U701" Embroidery: Executed in red thread under the collar. Handcrafted by a USAF technician. "U" stands for Subject. The red color indicated a high-priority experimental status. Code S-1436: Hand-written or stamped code on the interior. Significance: Internal laboratory number for a specific testing protocol within the "Big Five" research. Manufacturer: Creighton (Certificate P-2-4-2). 5. Anthropometric Match: Parameters: Tailored for an athletic build (173 cm / 70 kg). This is a direct physical match for members of the elite "Big Five" era test pilots during their evaluations. Mission & Valuation: I value history and honor above all. However, as I intend to move this artifact forward, I am seeking a serious financial valuation from the experts here. I have decided that a significant portion of the proceeds from the eventual sale of this artifact will be donated to U.S. Veterans' organizations. This is my tribute to the men who liberated my city and my family. Maybe I am wrong, but I have spent the entire week studying these facts... and the technical evidence is overwhelming. Thank you for your time and expertise. Radim Pelikán Kurc Foundation Pilsen, Czech Republic

-->>  Col. Frank Zamboni obituary   Comment:   Sgt Richard wiggins March 26, 2025 Col zamboni was the best co you could ask for . Was with him in the 12th amas. Mcguire afb in 66 to 70 when the 12th was closed down. I'm 80 years old now and will never forget this outstanding leader.   Blog Comment: Wayne Owens Our air evacuation crews (12th AMAS, McGuire AFB) relieved crews at Elmendorf and flew the rest of the trip EDF-ADW-WRI. Most patients were Vietnam Casualties The plane used was the C-141.

Hello and welcome to this Forum!

If I had to guess, I would say that non-sterling DUI dates mid to late 40's after the strategic metal restrictions were lifted and DUI's resumed being made of metals other than sterling.    And then again, could be pre/very early WW2 using the similar logic.   In any case, two very nice DUI's.