Hello, yes, I noticed the fuzzy blue on the rim, which is why I showed this example to the forum members.   Is it due to wear and tear? I think so, but I'm not sure.   I'll check as soon as I receive it. If it's not as described, I have the right to return it.   Thank you for your interest in my search.   Sincerely, Jo

Various reasons for the rear or side pockets top be removed. Many were just for the Marines personal preference. Also, in the late 50s not uncommon to see the older HBT uniforms still worn both the P44, P41 and P47. Often the lower pockets on the P41 and P47 shirts were removed to facilitae tucking the shirts into the dungarees to conform with the new regulations and also more in line with the P58 shirts. With HBTs they had a wear put period and if sound the patterns could be worn and used. I have seen the P44 trousers with butt pockets removed that were post war used and simple answer could be they did so just to be more in line with the other trousers as well as for comfort/ 

Im not a fan of the posted diamond.  I would want to have it in hand but not a fan of the blue material to the edge. War times ones I have had and own have an olive drab base material edge exposed or a tan that doesn't glow. The back looks off to me and this said I would want to see if the edge glows when hit with a black light  

CR stands for Contract Reserve, a pre WW1 short lived insignia

Hello everyone, superb grouping of the 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions. Likewise, the photos are great; it must have been a wonderful exhibition that I missed at the time.   Best regards, Jo

Thank you. Glad you liked them.   Scott

Another variation of this wing is the so-called "upside down tear drop" jump wing. These can be found with the same catch as your wing or with an egg-shaped catch.

Centurion or Poulan Auctions sold one in 2023 for over $3000   Keith

There`is`an`art`to`being`a`wordsmith.`That`was`perfect.

QUESTION re: the butt bellows pocket on P44 tousers:   Some of the ones I've found for sale have the butt pocket removed (I can see where the original stitching was). Since anything carried there would not only add weight, but would make it difficult to sit on one's butt or crawl on one's back.   My question is whether it was common for Marines cut those bellows pockets off (I sure would have).?   Thanks,   zk