This is a high-caliber piece of World War II naval history custom-tailored for a specific, researchable veteran. This U.S. Navy Officer’s Bridge Coat (Overcoat) was crafted by the prestigious Jacob Reed’s Sons of Philadelphia, a firm renowned for outfitting the elite of the "Greatest Generation."
The coat is named to James E. Hagen, a Commissioned Warrant Officer (CWO) and a Gunner, identified by the "flaming bomb" ordnance insignia and the distinctive blue-break gold lace on the sleeves. A true "Two-Ocean" veteran, Hagen’s original ribbon rack documents a remarkable service record across both major theaters:
- Asiatic-Pacific Campaign: Shows clear "ghost" indentations of a previously pinned star, marking his transition to the Pacific theater.
- Philippine Liberation & WWII Victory: Completes the story of a high-level explosives specialist who served from the Atlantic to the liberation of the Pacific islands.
Key Features for the Collector
- Provenance: Fully named and researchable; a "storyteller" piece for military historians.
- Technical Rarity: Features the specific Gunner insignia, a role reserved for technical experts in ordnance and explosives.
- Condition & Quality: Exceptional heavy-weight wool and hand-stitched labels. The "ghosting" on the ribbons provides authentic proof of the rack’s originality.
- Investment Grade: Named items from high-end tailors like Jacob Reed’s Sons consistently hold and appreciate in value within the militaria market.
Note: This is not a standard-issue surplus item; it is a bespoke, officer-grade garment belonging to a highly decorated technical officer who was in
the thick of the fight on both sides of the globe.
The length is 32 inches long, the pit to pit width is 22 inches wide, the shoulder to shoulder is 18 inches wide, and the length of the sleeves from the shoulder to the end is 26 inches long.
Please see the pictures and please ask any questions before offerding on the coat.
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