I would hazard a guess that he was overseas prior to WWII starting given the hole in the American Defense ribbon, which likely had a star for some action at the outbreak of the war. What city and state did it come from? Do you have the address still by chance? You can often find previous owners in assessor databases and search from there...even last names can be found in the WWII Enlistment records.

Here are some more neat shots of Portland Air Base to include a USO show, and more of the facilities that once were there.   Scott

Well, anyone of those bats is worth more than an original M2 Paratrooper Helmet even with an Inland Liner!

. Photo showing stockrooms at Hillerich & Bradsby in 1942.           regards lewis.   ...

MYTH - Anyone who falls overboard is extremely difficult to spot in the water, even our OSCAR dummies all in orange used for training.  The Seven Seas and other ponds are full of lost OSCARS. The 'patch' is embroidered on all 'Aquaflage' uniforms at the factory, it's the United States Navy logo.      

Probably not...ELA is not a common last name, and to match rank, name, and approximate age, I think this is the only one.

You could do this to try to read the stamps. https://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/62632-an-awesome-way-to-see-old-dates-on-ww2-ww1-field-gear/

Hope it works out. 

I have always wondered what background these cammies were supposed to blend in with….. Agree it would make it hard to find anyone who fell overboard, and they would stand out like a sore thumb on a beach….

I like the look too. I also read that if a person fell over board wearing them, they would be hard to spot. Can you please tell me Sigseye... what is that patch on the pocket with ship Anchor and eagle?