Manual PAM 350-12 Guide For Squad leaders - 1967

A unicorn for vintage collectors and reenactors with larger heads: An original Vietnam War era US Army Field Grade Officer's Service Cap. This cap features the distinctive gold bullion oak leaf embroidery on the visor (commonly known as "Scrambled Eggs"), designating the rank of Major through Colonel. Manufactured by Berkshire De Luxe as a high-quality private purchase item. The size is an incredibly rare 7 3/4 (approx. 62 cm). Finding vintage headgear in this size is exceptionally difficult. Condition is excellent/very good.

A genuine vintage pocket patch for the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, nicknamed the "Blackhawks". This unit saw extensive heavy combat in Vietnam acting as the "eyes and ears" for the Americal Division. This patch features the highly desirable "Cut Edge" construction (non-merrowed) and a "Snowy Back" reverse, hallmarks of US-made insignia from the Vietnam era (pre-1968). It is in used condition, showing signs of having been removed from a uniform.

A pristine vintage US Army Special Forces Beret dated August 1973. Manufactured by the highly collectible "Fleur de Lis" (Dorothea Knitting Mills), known for producing the best-shaped berets of the Vietnam era. It features a vintage 3rd Special Forces Group flash with the desirable "Cut Edge" construction and a pinned DUI crest. Note: Size is 6 1/4(extra small), making this a perfect display piece rather than wearable items.

Genuine Vietnam War dated M-1950 Adjustable Jump Case. "Pack, Parachutists, Weapons and Individual Equipment". Dated March 1968. Maker: Kings Point Ind. Mint / Unissued condition.

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.

An exceptional identified artifact from the Vietnam War helicopter war. This K-2B Cotton Flight Suit belonged to Aviator Nathan N. Withington, a pilot with the 191st Assault Helicopter Company (AHC). The distinctive "Yosemite Sam" patch identifies him as a member of the elite "Bounty Hunters" Gunship Platoon. The suit retains the original leather nametag and the manufacture label dated 4 April 1966.

An authentic US Army Special Forces Shoulder Sleeve Insignia. This item is historically significant as it features a Merrowed Edge (thick border) but carries a confirmable Vietnam War date. The original box label identifies the contract as DSA 100-67-C-1365 (Fiscal Year 1967), manufactured by Shalhoub Bros. This serves as definitive proof that merrowed edge patches were produced and issued during the late stages of the Vietnam War.

An incredibly scarce piece of Vietnam War history: An original ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam) field shirt. Unlike US gear, surviving ARVN uniforms are very hard to find. This item was sourced directly from Vietnam, adding to its provenance. It is in "Salty" / combat-worn condition, featuring holes near the collar and a missing pocket button. The sleeve shows a distinct "Ghost Patch" outline where insignia was removed. Fits like a US Small.

Unused Body Armor, Ground Troops, Variable Type vest with plates. Size Medium Long. Contract DSA 100-69-C-0548. Perfect unused condition. There is a small tear in the cotton fabric on the inside back see photo.

The vest was tested by the 1st Cavalry Division in Vietnam from January to May 1967, and although it was too heavy for foot mobile operations, it was recommended for personnel involved in escorting convoys and motorized patrols.

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 highly elusive piece for the advanced M7 collector: The US M7 Bayonet manufactured by FZR (Fraser Manufacturing Corp.). Fraser is considered one of the rarest Vietnam-era contractors, having produced only an estimated 40,000 units across two contracts in 1971 and 1972. Finding one in this condition is exceptional. The crossguard is stamped "M7 FZR". Paired with a correct period M8A1 scabbard by TWB.

The essential reference guide for collectors of Vietnam War memorabilia, focusing specifically on the opposing forces. "Weapons and Field Gear of the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong" by Edward J. Emering is a high-quality hardcover book published by Schiffer Military History. It provides an in-depth look at the uniforms, equipment, and weapons used by Communist forces, making it a vital tool for authentication.