The Vietnam Jacket

[B-52 7,113]

Did not know where to post this, or what to title it. So often I read stories about people fitting into wedding or prom dresses, I thought I would share my story.

I did 2 tours of Vietnam straight out of High School before going to College on the GI Bill.

The one thing I had from all of that was a olive drab combat jacket issued to me by Uncle Sam. I loved that jacket. But it stopped fitting me a long time ago, and it is long gone.

Don't have a clue what happened to it. Whenever you see news clips of Vets they are always wearing some clothing from their service. The jacket may not have any meaning to

the everyday person, but has many memories to me and has the immediate recognition with other vets.

The other day I was sorting out old photo's on the computer, and there I was. A 21 y/o skinny kid with hair down on my shoulders wearing a olive drab canvas jacket. (a real hippie), taken

with my wife when we were still dating. Man I miss that jacket. Would it fit today? Could it fit today? Guess I'll never know.

But then I realized you could buy anything on the internet if you know where and what to look for. I finally found one.Granted it is not the actual one that was issued to me, but it is a genuine article just the same. Issued the same era.

The seller used words like "Vintage", "Rare" and "Highly Collectable" (makes me feel old) and for that he was asking a premium price. But I bought it just the same.

It's the weekend so I don't have a ship date yet. But if this jacket fits....I can't begin to tell you the wave of emotions and memories it will bring.

And if it is too small.....then I have another goal to reach.

[njm 0]

Cool! Hope it fits. Thanks fir your service.

[Grider 92]

Well congrats on your progress and HIGH SALUTE for you and all the veterans in this forum!

[Dawn200321 146]

YAY!! Thats awesome....I will be rooting for the jacket to fit right when you get it!

[Allison0927 329]

A BIG SINCERE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE! and i hope it fits but if it does not - i KNOW you will be in it before you know it. Then, you can take your wife on a date while wearing it!!!!