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ORIGINAL WWII TYPE A-2 (723RD BOMB SQUADRON, 450TH BOMB GROUP “TUNG HOY")

Jorgeenriqueaguilera

Well-Known Member
Gents,

Today I would like to share a WWII example with an interesting past.

This Type A-2 belonged S/Sgt. Vernon D. Hasley. He completed 50 missions over MTO as a tail gunner aboard the "Tung Hoy", a B-24H from the 723rd Bomb Squadron, 450th Bomb Group, 15th Air Force. His crew left Alamogordo, NM in November 1943, landing in Manduria, Italy. The entire crew returned to the United States safely. Hasley was discharged on September, 1945, as a Staff Sergeant and was awarded the following: Mediterranean Theather of Operations with two Battle Stars, Good Conduct Medal, Air Medal, with four Bronze and one Silver OLC's and a Presidential Unit Citation with an OLC.

This example definitely has seen lots of action during service. Unfortunately the tag was removed at some point, but this could be an Aero 18775 or 15142. Cuffs and waistband have been installed properly with the correct material.

Left chest depicts Hasley's wife's name, "LaRue" painted.

Back depicts Hasley's B-24H's name, "Tung Hoy" painted.

As a side note, this jacket has been published on the “ART OF THE FLIGHT JACKET” book from Maguire & Conway.

Well, say no more guys. Hope you enjoy it!

Regards,
Jorge
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WBOONE

Active Member
Very nice! I have a 15142P. It is a classic looking A2. I remember reading somewhere that some of the AAF crew would remove the spec tag from their issued A2 especially if they intended to bring it home with them due to the " Property US Army US air Force" writing on the tag.
 
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