Alpha Industries MA-1 VF LW USAF Blood Chit Bomber Jacket. Well that's a mouthful...
So, What does it all mean?
Let's get to grips with the jacket first:
The MA-1 is Alpha Industries classic retro bomber jacket silhouette. Designed for military aviation, the iconic blouson shape, short length construction and striking orange lining are all traits that ensure this flight jacket is practical and essential kit for military expeditions. Ribbed trims to trap in warmth, the orange liner for high visibility, the utilitarian pocket details and the interior storm placket are all key specifications of the traditional flight jacket.
The MA-1 Bomber Jacket has stood the test of time, crossing over from it's military roots into main stream fashion, most notably in United Kingdom during the mod revival of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The jacket is a staple garment associated with skinhead fashions and mod culture and along with the harrington jacket is perhaps one of the most recognised outerwear pieces from the mod revival era.
... and what does the VF LW USAF Blood Chit mean?
Well, let's break this down and keep it concise. The MA-1 VF LW is attributed solely to this Alpha Industries style. The VF stands for Vintage Fit and is an Alpha Industries slimmed down silhouette of their own iconic masterpiece. Designed for the discerning fashionista, the MA-1 VF maintains all the aspects of the original retro MA-1 bomber, but is a closer cut and less blouson shape. The LW stands for Lightweight and is of course Alpha Industries seasonal version, making it ideal for the summer.
The USAF acronym is fairly self explanatory, standing for US Air Force and pays homage to Alpha Industries military roots. The USAF tagline features as a subtle vintage distressed print on the back of this MA-1 VF LW Bomber Jacket for added indie appeal.
... and what of the term Blood Chit?
Blood Chit ties in with the USAF theme and is a bonafide military term. Blood chit is a notice carried by military personnel and is addressed to any civilians (usually written in multiple languages) who may come across an armed-services member who is in difficulty e.g. a shot down pilot. The note conveys a message that requests assistance be rendered to the service member in distress (sometimes with the promise of reward).
During WWII many US flight crews took to sewing their blood chit's into the back of their jackets. This was partly for safe keeping and partly to ensure the notice was clearly on view in times of difficulty.
This Alpha Industries MA-1 VF LW USAF Blood Chit bomber jacket replicates this practical approach to displaying the blood chit by faithfully replicating the note on the orange liner of the jacket.
In English the Blood Chit reads:
I am a citizen of the United States of America . I do not speak your language. Misfortune forces me to seek your assistance in obtaining food, water and protection. Please take me to someone who will provide for any safety and see that I am returned to my people. My government will reward you.
The Finer Points:
- Alpha Industries MA-1 VF LW USAF Blood Chit Bomber Jacket in Sage.
- Reversible 2-in-1 bomber jacket.
- Vintage fit: Slim fit version of this iconic style.
- Lightweight construction for the Spring/Summer season.
- USAF tonal vintage distressed back print.
- Retro orange lining.
- Flag print blood chit replica to the lining in multiple languages.
- Mod ribbed bomber collar.
- Ribbed hem and cuffs.
- Mod bomber style zip pocket to sleeves.
- Two snap down side pockets.
- Interior storm placket.
- Detachable Alpha Industries 'Remove Before Flight' tag to sleeve.
- Colour: Sage.
- SKU: MA1 VF LW USAF 186103 SAGE.
Composition: Shell and lining: 100% nylon.
Care: Dry clean only.
Product ID: 29014
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