MACKINAW JACKET

This double breasted thigh length coat went through several modifications during W.W.II. The illustrated example is the prewar pattern, M1938, with a wool shawl collar. The next model eliminated the wool in favor of a plain cotton shawl collar. The final version, M1942, omitted the belt and replaced the shawl color with a notched lapel. The exterior of the coat is cotton poplin and color varies from khaki to very light green. All coats were lined with OD melton wool of similar color and weight to that used in the standard overcoat. The coat always had two flapped patch pockets on the skirt. Intended for vehicle operators, it occasionally found its way into the hands of infantry troops. Its length, windproof shell, and blanket lining made it warmer than the tanker jacket or either of the field jackets but it was lighter and less bulky than the overcoat.