Hello! I am back… Quick question on this M43 shovel. Foreign clone… Correct? No markings and no beveled handle…

The best clue here is the size stamp. There are many types of military flags and they have specific sizes. Even beyond the 1 thru 12 sizes, there are ceremonial flags and battalion ensigns etc.. Your flag's size marking does not conform to any military sizes. Since your flag is a rope edge, it was made to withstand heavier weather so I think it was possibly made to go on a commercial ship but that is a guess. Either way, it's a very nice flag and you got it at a good price. 

USAF / 3d Tactical Fighter Wing. Bien Hoa AB, RVN. "NCOOM". Japanese-made "Vulcan". (Photos: 90th TFS & 531st TFS F-100Ds at BHAB).

I find it unlikely that a civilian school would have US Navy on their jackets. I think it would be more likely the jacket was from a Navy team of some sort stationed at Alameda. There are lots of military sports teams with unique uniforms.

Coloring….   https://www.bulletpicker.com/pdf/OP-1665.pdf#page=448

Search here for information.   https://www.bulletpicker.com/torpedo_-bangalore_-2-inch_-mk.html?q=bangalore

Thanks for posting a really nice piece.  

USMC caps, do not have the black band around them

You'll also note on the diagram that the eyelets are laced from inside to outside.  That is, the running part of the lace is inside passing up and out of the eyelets and then back down inside.  Each pair of eyelets are secured with a round turn and half-hitch with the hitch on the inside.

. Hi Flibble,   yes it was / is the Panther at Houffalize, a couple of more photos of it from more recent trips...       Norman D. Landing, Forum Normandy Correspondent, 09 July  2O26.   ..