Our WWII USAAF Crush Cap is the classic “bomber pilot” headgear was worn by USAAF pilots in Europe and the Pacific. The standard Army/AAF officer’s dress cap worn by pilots and non-pilots alike. Pilots gave this cap their own unique twist with removing the stiffeners. They were a support piece behind the cap device and around the inside top perimeter to maintain the cap’s round shape. These kept the cap in its proper, regulation military shape and angle. However, since bomber pilots wore headsets over their caps during flights, they would remove the wire stiffener for more comfort. This caused the sides of the caps to become crushed. Eventually, the caps retained their floppy “crushed” look, giving the pilot who wore it the look of a seasoned veteran.
Our WWII USAAF Crush Cap recreates that “50 Mission” look without having to fly 50 missions! Of course, the cap looks great when worn with an A-2 flight jacket. The perfect “topper” for that authentic WWII vintage look. The crush cap identified its wearer as an experienced pro, as much a part of his identity as his leather flight jacket. Made in the USA.
U.S. Wings recently added to OTEXA’s Made in U.S.A. Database
The WWII USAAF Crush Cap features:
- Melton olive drab wool
- Reinforced visor
- Chin strap
- Brass buttons
- Brass Officer’s cap Eagle Crest
- Sturdy headliner
- Colors: Green & Khaki
Stylianos C. –
Dear Sgt Hack,
My name is Stylianos Christou and I am from Greece. I have been monitoring your site for six years now and I have to say that I am extremely impressed. Today I received my WWII crush cap for which I am very happy about and I intend to order many other WWII related stuff from your site. The reason for this e-mail is that I got truly impressed and shocked by your life story and I have to admit that you have been and still are a very courageous man who doesn’t withdraw from any difficult situation that might occur in life. I have been through some difficulties in my life too, not as yours of course, but I am glad to know that there are other people like you who don’t give up no matter what. This year I am studying to be a professional aviator and I have to say that my morale has been a bit low due to certain difficulties but after reading your story I regained my stamina to fight my cause until I succeed. Finally, I would like to thank you for inspiring me with your story and tell you that I would like to meet you sometime in person, although this is difficult at the specific time. Keep on the good work, US Wings should keep offering high quality products as you do now.
My best regards,
Stylianos Christou