The period of World War II witnessed swift advancements in both aircraft technology and pilot uniform. As the war drew to a close, the proliferation of nylon, identified as the optimal fabric through testing by the Aero Medical Laboratory, coupled with the advent of the Jet Age, paved the way for the creation of a new, lightweight flight jacket known as the L-2.

The inception of the L-2B can be traced back to 1955, following the Korean War ceasefire, and it stood as the quintessential light-zone flight jacket, remaining in service until the late 1970s with subtle modifications over time. Following the L-2A, and the conclusion of the Korean War, the U.S. Air Force (USAF) transitioned the colour of flight jackets from the original Air Force blue to the newly designated sage green hue. The TYPE L-2B / FOURTH BUT FIRST calls back to the earlier models, featuring a distinctive champagne gold wool-rayon lining, specifically crafted using a rayon-wool knapped back lining.

Although the first official order for the L-2B was placed in 1955, it's worth noting that the mil-spec J-7448, outlining its specifications, was created in 1952. Despite this early documentation, no actual orders were finalised based on these specs. Consequently, the J-7448A can be considered the inaugural model of the L-2B.

In the early models, the champagne gold lining was a defining characteristic. However, due to a color error, the original lining likely featured a colour blur resembling the sage green (grey) lining. Notably, post-1961, with the adoption of the D-type, the lining transitioned to rescue orange.

The L-2B shares its pattern with the TYPE L-2A REAL MCCOY MFG. CO., and the iconic sage green colour aligns with the TYPE MA-1 REAL MCCOY MFG. CO.. This crossover of design elements and colour variations showcases the history and evolution of the L-2 series and overall flight jacket development.

Our TYPE L-2B / FOURTH BUT FIRST is constructed in a custom-produced Nylon fabric that authentically replicates the characteristics of the highly durable nylon material from the 50s. Nylon 66 was invented by DuPont Co. and became the preferred material for military jackets because of its superior durability and flame resistance.

Featuring custom embroidery, The 4th Fighter Wing, also known as the Fighting Eagles, have been operating since 1942, first being activated in England and comprising of former U.S. members of RAF Eagle Squadrons. Earning a reputation as a unit that can achieve significant results during the great war, the entry into the Korean war in the 1950s would ultimately see the unit produce six ace pilots.

For 70 years the 4th Fighter Wing have persisted in setting a standard of excellence in air power and defence. The motto ‘Fourth but First” is a phrase that follows a series of “firsts” in the squadron, having being the first airforce unit to be activated in the European Theatre of war during WW2, where they were the first group to engage in the destruction of enemy aircraft. They would also be the first wing to deploy to Korea, where they responded to USS Pueblo crisis in 1968. They were additionally the inaugural wing to receive the F-15E Strike Eagle, which was deployed during Operation Desert Storm.

The L-2B is finished an insulating wool ribbing similarly to the B-15C and MA-1. The brass dot buttons are black oxide conversion coated to MIL-SPEC, as are the 50s Oval front and sleeve zippers.

66 Nylon Outer Shell

Champagne Gold Rayon-Wool Knapped Back Lining

Wool Ribbing

Brass Dot Button

50s Oval-Shaped Front and Sleeve Zipper, Black Oxidised

Cotton Zipper Taping

Made in Japan