Our limited edition vintage aviation clothing undergo a special aging and weathering process that gives the look of being printed in a Quonset hut, faded by the tropical sun and flown fifty missions. Much like an old flight jacket, they will only become more comfortable, faded and treasured with each passing day and each passing flight.
Printed on very high quality garment dyed fabric, pre shrunk 6.1 ounce heavy weight cotton. Set in Sleeves. ¾ ribbed collar with double-needle top stitched neckline. Double needle stitched armhole, sleeve and waist hems. Taped neck shoulder to shoulder.
The Spitfire we are honoured to represent was flown by Wing Commander Lloyd “Chad” Chadburn of the Canadian fighter wing number 127 RCAF. His command included the 403, 421, and 416 Squadrons. His aircraft was painted with the RCAF roundel and the letters LVC which signified the Wing Commander’s initials. The white band painted on the tail of the aircraft indicated that it was a day fighter.
Wing Commander Chadburn was credited with over 14 enemy kills and two German E-Boats sunk, two damaged, as well as a destroyer damaged. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Distinguished Service Order and Bar, the French Croix de Guerre avec Palme and was made a Chevalier (Knight) in the French Legion of honour. At only 22 years of age, Chadburn was the youngest Wing Commander in the RCAF.
Ironically, Chadburn was turned down twice when he tried to enlist in the RCAF in 1939. In 1940 he was finally accepted as an Air Gunner. Shortly after, he was reassigned for pilot training.
During his service, one of Chad’s prime missions was to escort USAF B-26 Maurauders as they attacked coastal installations and enemy airfields. In 60 sorties escorting the USAF, only one Marauder was lost to enemy fighters. In recognition of the safe passage Chad provided to the bomber crews, the American crews nicknamed him “The Angel”.
