Author in need of quotes...

[Zemke Fan]

Gentlemen,

I am in the middle of preparing an article for our favorite men's magazine (you know the one) with the working title, "Allure of the Flight Jacket." Although I thought I had the article put to bed, upon reflection (and editor's advice) I am adding some quotes from real A-2 collectors. I would appreciate hearing from any of you on the following topics:

1. Do any of you have and/or wear an A-2 worn by a relative during the war? If so, what was his rank, name, relationship to you, and his outfit?
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2. How does wearing an A-2 make you feel? Cool? Heroic? Classic? Connected to the Golden Era?
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3. Did you start wearing an A-2 after seeing a particular film or TV show? If so, which one(s)?
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4. Are any of you blokes connected to a former WWII A-2 wearer who's still with us and available to be interviewed?
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5. Finally, what's so special about the A-2 in your opinion?

Thanks in advance for any assistance you might provide. If I end up using a quote from you, I will need your real name, which you can provide in a PM. I need to finish this in the next 10 days, so jump right in!

ZF

 

[greyhound68]

Wearing an original A2 and knowing something about the former owner connects me to the greatest generation. Got interested in A2s after watching 12o clock high. Great picture. Also seeing Steve McQueen in the Great Escape had an influence as well. Don't know if any of the original owners of a two of my original A2s are alive or not. My guess is probably not. I think what makes the A2 so special is the connection to the greatest generation and the history of that time. It is a memory of their courage and sacifice.

 

[Zemke Fan]

Thanks, Greyhound!

Anyone else here willing/able to help? Please chime in!

 

[Spitfire]

A USAAF pilot in ETO once said: "Wearing the A2 is like wearing your plane."
So I guesse it's my only way to "wear a plane".

I wear my A2's as a tribute to the pilots and the time back then. That's about it. Not because I once saw a movie or want to look like a hero.

Actually I think it all started when I read Len Deightons: "Goodbye Mickey Mouse".
Even painted the title and a MM painting bombs on the back of my first A2 - long time ago.

 

[jamespibworth@n]

I got interested in A2 jackets as I have always liked leather jackets and I especially like the cut of the A2.

But then, if I were asked why do I like them, it could be that over the years seeing old films with pilots and heroes wearing them unconsciously sinks in, so when I wear mine it feels good for that reason?

When I first noticed the A2 I did not know then what it was and what it meant, I just knew I liked it.

This could be chicken and egg stuff?!

It’s also a bonus that this garment has a lot to offer in terms of gaining knowledge of history and also something to collect, enjoy researching and owning.

James.