Deadstock New 1940’s Vintage WW2 Military HBT Herringbone Twill PQD 45 “The Specials” OD-7 Combat Utility Field Shirt Jacket
Made in the USA
Best Fits Unisex/Men’s Size: Large
Tagged Size: 36R (Fits Larger - made to fit 10" over the marked size due to the design concept that they be large enough to be worn over a field jacket)
Color: Olive Drab Green OD7
Fabric: Herringbone Twill
Material: 100% Cotton 8.2oz
Pattern Date: July 15th, 1944 P.O 22646 May 4th, 1945
Spec. No. P.Q.D No. 45D/E
Style: “The Specials” - 2nd Pattern
Bust: 23” flat
Length: 25.5”
Shoulder: 19.5”
Sleeve: 23”
Stock No. 55-J-508-45
Manufacturer: Perry Bros. Mfg. Company Philadelphia Q.M Depot
- two cargo type patch chest button flap pockets
- notched or button collar w/ anti-gas flap “Special” (still stitched down in top corner as it’s deadstock -never used)
- button cinch sleeves
- unlined
- plastic buttons
Deadstock, a new old, never worn vintage piece in amazing new condition. This jacket has been in storage for nearly 80 years.
US Military WW2 HBT Fatigue Uniform’s History:
The Herringbone Twill cloth work suit, better known as "HBT fatigue uniform", is named after the type of weaving of its fabric (fish bone). It first appeared in the field in 1941, but was been in Quartemaster Corps (Q.M.C.) projects for much longer.
It was in 1938 that the QMC decided to replace the working outfits made of strong blue denim, which was coarse and unpleasant to wear, with fabric made of herringbone twill fabric, which was more suitable.
New designs for both garments appeared in late 1942- these uniforms are referred to by collectors as "second pattern".
The new jacket was greatly simplified; the bi-swing back, adjustable waist and gusseted armpits were gone, the breast pockets were simpler and much larger. The already loosely fitting chest was enlarged another 2". They were now 10" over the marked size due to the design concept that they be large enough to be worn over a field jacket. The new trousers had a larger seat for better freedom of movement, a higher rise, and the internal pockets were replaced with two large cargo types on the hips.
The "Specials" (like the one for sale above)
At this point, the Army was going to great lengths to protect troops from possible chemical warfare attack. In late 1942, most tops were modified with "gas flaps" on the chests and cuffs while trousers were fitted with overlapping flys in an effort to prevent blister agents from reaching soldiers' skin. Garments modified or produced with these features had the term "Special" added to their name. The Specials appeared early in 1943.
In March 1943, this was replaced by the 45D which eliminated the yoke at the shoulders. This model was manufactured through the end of the War in both OD8 (sage green) and OD7.
Originally designed for chores, it was one of the major pieces of the GI's battle dress. Practical and comfortable to wear in warm climate as a replacement for the 'mustard' outfit, but also very popular in winter period as a complement to the woollen cloth outfit.
