Original Items: Only One Set Available. This is a wonderful condition WWII US Naval Chief

Aerographer's Mate uniform set. The uniform is near complete and features incredible gold and silver bullion embroidered pilot’s wings on the left breast. All stitching is intact and the uniform itself shows light wear.

The green aviation work uniform was worn by officers and chief petty officers assigned to aeronautical units. First authorized in 1917, the uniform went through a number of changes before arriving at the pattern used during the WW2 period. It remained in service for a remarkably long period of time being used almost continuously until 2011.

The uniform is of wool construction designed for cool weather conditions and wear and was generally restricted to bases and installations while carrying out work assignments. The color of the aviation winter uniform was officially referred to as forestry green and during the WW2 period was the same color as US Marine Corps Officer's winter service uniform. Aviation greens, for the most part, were made up in 18 ounce wool Elastique; however, gabardine, whipcord, serge, and kersey were also used on occasion. A popular fabric at the time, wool Elastique had resilient qualities that made it ideal for use in sportswear and military uniforms.

Being designed for work, the uniform was cut to allow for comfort and freedom of movement. Accordingly, the coat featured a bi-swing back, a rear skirt vent extending to the beltline, and bellows lower pockets of generous proportions. The left sleeve features a beautiful chevron for a Chief Aerographer's Mate. Aerographer was established as a rating in 1924, and in 1942 the rating officially changed to Aerographer's Mate. An Aerographer's Mate is the Navy's own weather forecaster. Aerographer's Mates are trained in the science of meteorology and physical oceanography; the Navy's meteorological and oceanographic experts. AGs learn to use instruments that monitor weather characteristics such as air pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, and then distribute this data to aircraft, ships and shore activities.

The trousers featured a roomy rear-end and crotch allowing for easy bending and stooping. Not lacking style, the coat included a distinctive two-inch wide belt sewn around the waist, a roll collar, and notched lapels; features that gave the outfit a fashionable and sharp appearance despite its intended use for work duties.

Coats were made with either a full or partial rayon lining with this one being a fully lined example. The front of the coat was closed by three buttons of traditional Navy design and featured a dark bronze finish and all are present. Rank and branch of service insignia were displayed on the lower sleeve. Aviation wings were worn on the left breast above the pocket and were typically the metallic or gilt thread type just like this example. It should be noted that aviation wings were originally bright gold in color but due to their metallic content most have tarnished over time and no longer display the vibrant, reflective colors intended, as you can see from the pictures.

The overall condition is quite good with the only real wear being to the shirt and tie, other than that the coat, trousers and overseas cap are in excellent, near unissued condition.

Comes more than ready for further research and display.