M1 liner 104th Cavalry Regiment

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

Genuine 1970 dated Rip-Stop Jungle Jacket. Features 101st Airborne Division patch (merrowed edge), Senior Army Aviator wings, and nylon name tapes. Size Medium-Short..

A rare experimental garment with elite provenance. These "Trousers, Man's, Combat, Temperate" (Contract 7914) come directly from the estate of a US Special Forces veteran. The trousers are in a unique condition: laundered and then subjected to an extreme "Heavy Starch", making the fabric board-stiff with razor-sharp creases. This represents the classic "Strac" appearance maintained by SF troopers in garrison during the Vietnam era.

A prime example of the US Army "Rucksack, Tropical", the definitive pack of the Vietnam War. Dated 1968 (DSA 100-68-C-2782). Unlike the later ALICE pack, this features the distinctive spring-steel "X-Frame" to keep the load off the soldier's back in humid conditions. The nylon is in excellent condition with vibrant color. Includes two original utility lash straps. Note: One metal eyelet is missing from a side attachment tab.

Genuine 1970 Vietnam Era M-65 by Alpha Industries. Features desirable aluminum Scovill zippers and "ghost patches" from removed insignia. Includes matching 1970 liner in good condition.

Genuine Vietnam War era OG-107 Utility Shirt. Manufactured by Globe Bag Corp in 1967. Cotton Sateen Type III. Size 15 1/2 x 33. New Old Stock (NOS) / Unissued condition.

A highly desirable Vietnam Era "Private Purchase" Green Beret made by the famous Bancroft Military Capscompany. Distinguished by its yellow/gold lining, this was the preferred headgear for career Special Forces soldiers who wanted a sharper look than the standard issue. Named to "WILSON" on the sweatband. The beret is in very nice condition but features a distinct cigarette burn through the vinyl liner, adding undeniable character and history. Size approx 7 1/4.

Genuine 1968 dated Vietnam War Jungle Boots. Panama sole pattern. "Spike Protective" steel plate. Made by HI-PALS. Rare Size 12R. Mint/Unissued condition with original tag.

Decal for helmet/liner - Airborne arch. The product is from the 60's, can not guarantee the possibility of application on the helmet/liner.

Genuine Vietnam War 5-Quart Collapsible Canteen / Flotation Bladder. Dated 1968. Made by Trenton Textile. Clear vinyl bladder. Unissued / Mint condition..

An incredible piece of Vietnam War naval history: Original 1967 US Navy OG-107 Cotton Sateen Shirt. This shirt belonged to a diver assigned to the Ship Repair Facility (SRF) at Subic Bay, Philippines, the primary maintenance hub for the US 7th Fleet. Key features include:

• Chest: Embroidered U.S. NAVY tape and Diver insignia (Mark V Helmet style).

• Shoulder: Rare, large colorful patch "COM. NAV. PHIL. SRF SUBIC BAY - DIVING SALVAGE". A true collector's item with specific provenance.

Genuine US M7 Bayonet by Imperial. Rare chrome-plated finish for Honor Guard and ceremonial duties. Blade and handle hardware are chromed. Sold as bayonet only (no scabbard).