Original 1942 Dated British Army Drab Windproof Smock - AAC Attributed

An original 1942 dated British Army Drab Windproof Smock which belonged to an officer in the Army Air Corps. 

This smock belonged to J. S. Ralli who was an officer in the British Army. He was commissioned into the Rifle Brigade in 1958 and had a long career in the military. He went on to the Army Air Corps in which he served with throughout the 1960s. He served in Borneo, Malaya and Hong Kong as well as in Germany and other places. When he left the army he was stationed in the Middle East as well as West Africa and clearly had a very interesting career in the military, as well as afterwards. I have a large number of items which belonged to the man also listed and available to view and they give a real insight into who he was as well as his career. He was keen on having clothing tailored to suit his specific needs and this smock is no exception. 

The smock started life as a standard issue dra windproof which was made in 1942.  It is made from a tan coloured gabardine material and features four patch pockets which fasten with Rifle Brigade pattern buttons which have been added by the original owner. He has had a full length zip added to the front which is maker marked 'YKK' and is a typical early example from this brand and is a pleasing blue colour which is similar to the AAC oxford blue. He has also had his Army Air Corps wings fitted above the left breast pocket and has had elastic added to each cuff. There is a drawstring along the bottom edge and another around the mouth of the hood. Inside one of the breast pockets is a flip out knife and lanyard. Ralli has also added his name to the underside of the pocket flap.

Inside the smock the original label is still present but is washed out. The War Department acceptance stamp is still present however and is surmounted by the letter 'O' which denotes 1942 as the year of issue. A waterproof zip pocket has also been added to the interior which is typical of the king of modifications Ralli has one his clothing.

When laid flat the smock measures - 

Chest - 29"
Inside arm - 20 1/2"
Outside arm - 21"
Shoulders - 24 1/2"
Length at rear - 31"

The smock is in good condition for its age with signs of wear and use. There are no serious flaws or damage and overall it displays well and is totally wearable.  Please take time to study the pictures however and bear in mind that these are a vintage, pre-owned pair of trousers which may have small issues commensurate with age. 

An incredible post-war used smock with so many excellent details and great history.

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'