Uniforms and Equipment of U.S. Military Advisors in Vietnam

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.

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.

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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 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 pristine example of "Theater Made" headgear from the Vietnam War era. This Tiger Stripe cap represents the private purchase gear favored by GIs and Special Forces operating in Southeast Asia. Produced locally (likely Okinawa or Thailand tailor shops), this specific cap is in incredible Deadstock / Unissued condition. It retains the rare original paper inventory tag ("Size Small C.P. 2216") stapled to the brim. The fabric is crisp and the colors are vibrant. Size Small.

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.

Genuine wooden forend for the M79 "Blooper". Original USGI surplus, packaged in January 1974. Still sealed in original bag. Mint NOS condition.

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.

Genuine US Government Issue Khaki Shirt. Cotton construction with quarter-length (short) sleeves. Size Medium. Brand new in original factory packaging (NOS)..

Rare original propaganda booklet from the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam). Titled "U.S. Planes Downed Over North Vietnam". Contains stamps depicting anti-aircraft victories. Iconic POW cover image.

Genuine US Military fragmentation protective groin armor ("The Diaper"). Vietnam War era contract DSA-100-4677. Size 36 (Army) / 44 (Navy). Functional zipper. Used vintage condition. Collectible only.

Complete US Marine Corps M1941 Pack System (Upper Haversack + Lower Knapsack). Rare 1965 dated production (DSA contract) for Vietnam service. Mint / New Old Stock condition.