Original Late 1970s US Military 1/68th Armor Battalion Souvenir Jacket

An original Souvenir jacket, or 'Suka' jacket, which was made in the late 1970s for a US military serviceman stationed in Germany.

The original owner of this jacket was a member of 1/68th Armor Battalion who were stationed at Wildflecken during the late 1970s which was a training ground dubbed "The Top of the Rock" by American troops, the small post was among the most feared and disliked of all training areas due to high altitude and extreme weather conditions.

This style of jacket was highly popular with military personnel serving overseas. The jacket is made from a black coloured silky feeling material which is most likely a man-made satin. It is a simple, utilitarian design which fastens at the front with a brass 'YKK' branded zipper and slash pockets are located to the front which also features the same brand of zipper to fasten them closed. The words 'Aries' and 'Rendleman' are embroidered to the front and the place names of 'Gastonia' and 'North Carolina' are embroidered to the sleeves. 

The rear of the jacket also features embroidery which is typical of these jackets. It bears the place name of 'Wildenfleck' below which is an illustration of a reptilian animal and a tank intertwined. Below this is the unit designation of C. 1/68, the year of 1978-1980 and the word Germany.

The jacket will suit around a 38" - 40" chest depending on desired fit and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 22"
Inside arm - 20 1/2"
Outside arm - 26"
Shoulders - 19"
Length at rear - 25 1/2"

The jacket is in good condition for its age with some signs of wear or use. There are no serious flaws or any significant damage and overall it displays very well and is totally wearable. There are some period repairs which are illustrated in the pictures. Please take time to study these before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-worn item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice example of this iconic style of jacket.     

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