Background
The U.S. WWII Winter Combat Tanker Jacket, also known as the M1943 Tanker Jacket, was a specialized piece of clothing worn by tank crews during World War II. It was designed to provide warmth and protection to tankers who operated in cold and harsh environments.
The jacket was introduced in 1943 and was primarily used by American tank crews during the later stages of the war. It was specifically developed to address the unique needs of tankers who faced the challenges of operating in open-top armored vehicles, where they were exposed to the elements and faced the risk of being burned by hot metal surfaces in case of a fire.
The U.S. WWII Winter Combat Tanker Jacket was made of heavy-duty olive drab wool, which provided insulation against the cold. It featured a button-up front with a zipper closure, allowing for easy wearing and removal. The jacket had a distinctive high collar that could be folded down or buttoned up for added protection around the neck. The collar also had a strap and buckle for securing it in place.
One of the notable features of the jacket was the addition of a lining made of windproof cotton twill. This lining helped to reduce wind chill and provided an extra layer of protection against the elements. The jacket also had adjustable cuffs with buttons to seal out cold air.
Another important aspect of the U.S. WWII Winter Combat Tanker Jacket was its design for mobility. It had a shorter length compared to standard military jackets, which allowed for ease of movement within the confines of a tank. Additionally, it had a bi-swing back, which provided extra room in the shoulder area, allowing for freedom of movement when operating the tank's controls.
Overall, the U.S. WWII Winter Combat Tanker Jacket was a specialized garment designed to meet the specific needs of tank crew members during the harsh winter conditions of World War II. Its combination of warmth, protection, and mobility made it a practical and essential piece of clothing for tankers during the war. Today, vintage and reproduction versions of the jacket are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of military history.
Related Movie
The U.S. WWII Winter Combat Tanker Jacket is a historical military garment that was used during World War II. As such, it has been featured in many movies set during that period. One notable film that prominently showcases the U.S. WWII Winter Combat Tanker Jacket is "Fury" (2014), directed by David Ayer. The movie follows a U.S. Army tank crew in the final days of World War II and stars Brad Pitt as the tank commander. The tank crew members are seen wearing the iconic tanker jackets throughout the film.
