The L-2B is a classic U.S. Air Force Light Zone flight jacket. This particular piece is an authentic 1960 contract model—a highly appealing transitional design that retains many of the details from the 1950s while evolving into a new generation. The size is MEDIUM.
The L-2 series began with the post-World War II L-2, evolved through the L-2A, and eventually developed into the L-2B.While the B-15 series was designed for cold-weather flight jackets, the L-2B was developed as a “Light Zone” jacket intended for flight missions in relatively warm climates. It was highly regarded for its lightweight nylon shell and high mobility, and its design philosophy was carried forward into the later MA-1.
This item meets the MIL-J-7448B specification from the 1960 contract.It is a transitional model that retains features from the 1950s and earlier, featuring details unique to the early L-2B, such as shoulder epaulets and a waist strap. At the same time, the lining uses an orange fabric designed to improve visibility during rescue operations, making this a truly valuable specification that blends the old and new generations.
The front zipper is a CONMAR zipper. CONMAR is one of the leading zipper manufacturers for vintage flight jackets, and the fact that the original zipper remains intact is a major selling point.
The jacket’s standout feature is the custom embroidery with a real name from that era, clearly indicating that it was actually worn.
On the chest are
a nameplate inscribed with “ROBERT D. BUNNETT,
” “CAPTAIN,”
and “Ore ANG (Oregon Air National Guard),”
are inscribed on the nameplate, and since the rank insignia on the epaulets also indicates “Captain,” the nameplate and rank match.
A “MILITARY AIRLIFT COMMAND (MAC)” patch is attached to the left chest. The Military Airlift Command, established in 1966, was a strategic airlift command of the U.S. Air Force that played a vital role in transporting troops and supplies to locations around the world, providing humanitarian aid, and carrying out special missions.
On the left sleeve is
"AEROSPACE RESCUE AND RECOVERY SERVICE" and
"THAT OTHERS MAY LIVE"
remain on the left sleeve. “That Others May Live” is still known today as the motto of the U.S. Air Force rescue units and is a famous slogan symbolizing units engaged in combat and aerial rescue operations.
On the right sleeve, a patch reading “1550th Aircrew Training Wing” is attached. The 1550th Aircrew Training Wing was a unit responsible for the education and training of aircrew engaged in rescue and special missions, and it trained air rescue personnel and special mission aircrew.
Judging by the configuration of these patches, this item was manufactured in 1960 andremained in active service well into 1966 and beyond, and was likely worn by Captain Robert D. Barnett of the Oregon Air National Guard, who later served with the Military Airlift Command and the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service.It is highly likely that this jacket was used for rescue, airlift, and training missions from the late 1960s through the 1970s; rather than simply being a vintage jacket, it is a piece of great historical value that preserves the military history of a single aircrew member.
The jacket is in used condition. There is some staining on the ribbing and slight staining on the body, but overall, it shows minimal signs of wear, and the fabric is in very good condition. For a vintage piece that is approximately 65 years old, it is exceptionally well-preserved and can be worn or collected for many years to come.
This rare L-2B allows you to appreciate its historical context, featuring early design details from the 1950s, specifications from the transition period to the orange liner, a nameplate with the wearer’s real name, and authentic patches from the rescue and air transport units. It is a highly recommended piece that is also an impeccable collector’s item.
Please note that since this is a used item, returns are not accepted.
Size (measured flat)
Shoulder width: 50 cm; Chest
width: 58 cm;
Length: 61 cm;
Sleeve length: 60 cm
