Geoff was right on target about patching B-15Cs. Unlike the L-2A, the B-15C did not get patched as often. One theory I've come up with on my own is that the un-modded B-15s were not well received by aircrew, especially fighter pilots because of the mouton interfering with the newer hard shell helmets. I see more photos of non-aircrew wearing B-15Cs than I do of pilots wearing them. I think once aircrew started to show a preference to the lighter L-2A, the supply system started issuing the overstock B-15C jackets to maintenance and other non aircrew, hence little patching as most maintenance personnel did not patch jackets.
That being said, I do think the thin black leather tape with silver lettering was popular on the B-15C and L-2A jackets. I know Buzz Rickson often sells these jackets with the name tapes in white cloth, but I can't ever remember seeing a period photo of such a jacket. I might be wrong on this though.
My Buzz B-15C has become BY FAR my favorite jacket that I own. I got to wear it all day outside in the driving snowstorm we had while loading bombs on a B-52 here at Edwards AFB. Couldn't have had a better jacket to wear!!! Wish I could have taken photos. :roll: