Early 1960s Korea Reversible Military Souvenir / Tour Jacket – David L. “Dave” Sloan Veteran Grouping
Rare identified U.S. Army veteran grouping centered around an early 1960s reversible Korea military souvenir / tour jacket.
The jacket is personalized with the embroidered name “Dave” and belonged to David Lee Sloan of West York, Pennsylvania (June 8, 1938 – April 16, 2020). His identity and military connection are supported by the original items included with this grouping.
David L. Sloan completed infantry training with Company D, Second Battle Group, Ninth Infantry at Fort Benning, Georgia, beginning March 21, 1960 and graduating May 16, 1960.
The jacket is believed to date from approximately 1960–1962, based on Sloan’s documented 1960 military training, the Korea-themed personalized embroidery, period construction and hardware. Exact date of manufacture and exact Korea service dates have not been independently documented.
Sloan later became a Life Member of VFW Post 8951 in West York, Pennsylvania and served as Post Commander. A Pennsylvania VFW publication from 2017 identifies David Sloan as Commander of Post 8951. VFW PA His obituary confirms David Lee Sloan of West York was born June 8, 1938 and died April 16, 2020.
Included Provenance / Veteran Grouping
- Original reversible Korea souvenir jacket embroidered “Dave”
- Original 2nd Infantry Division / Company D / Second Battle Group / Ninth Infantry Fort Benning yearbook
- Yearbook page identifying David L. Sloan
- Original period photograph of Sloan at Fort Benning
- Photograph notation dated April 17, 1960
- VFW Post 8951 Pennsylvania cap with Life Member / Legacy insignia and pins
- VFW storage/document pouch marked Dave Sloan
- Original personal identification material shown in photos
- Dry-cleaning tag dated November 2013 marked “Sloan, David”
All items shown are included and are being kept together as one historical grouping.
Jacket Details
The burgundy side features:
- Large embroidered eagle on the back
- Large KOREA lettering
- Banner reading “I AM SURE TO GO TO HEAVEN BECAUSE I’VE SERVED MY TIME IN HELL”
- Eagle-head appliqué on chest
- Embroidered “Dave”
- Multiple zippered pockets
- Shoulder epaulets
- Striped rib-knit collar, cuffs and waistband
- Period metal zipper hardware
The cream / ivory reverse side features:
- Large KOREA lettering
- Embroidered map of Korea
- Locations including Seoul, Inchon, Taegu and Pusan
- U.S. and South Korean flags
- Military-style insignia
- Multiple zippered pockets
- Extensive embroidered / appliqué artwork
Approximate Size / Measurements
Approximate size: Men’s Medium
- Chest / pit to pit: about 21″
- Length: about 24–25″
- Sleeve: about 24″
Please review measurement photos carefully for fit.
