THE QATSPY® Quapaw Aviation Tactical Sportswear Performance Yukon Outfitter Company An Authorized Dealer & Distributor for US WINGS®
The A-2 Leather Flight Jacket based on the 1931 design and style submitted to the U.S. Army Air Corps
By: Charles W. Boatright
The 1931 A-2 Standard Leather Sports Jacket– of the Greatest Generation, part of James Dean/Indiana Jones/Fonzie/Arnold/Tom Cruise’s Image
The common bond that was shared by the Greatest Generation was also part of Marlon Brando, James Dean, Indiana Jones, Fonzie, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and even Tom Cruise’s persona. The A-2 and G-1 Leather Flight Jackets that were worn by pilots and aviators in the cockpit during World War II became the jacket of these icons, worn in their action roles. The A-2 and G-1 make a truly great sports jacket for all and any occasion.
Marlon Brando, James Dean, Indiana Jones, Fonzie, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Tom Cruise all wore leather jackets while riding motorcycles. In Indiana Jones the Last Crusade, Harrison Ford rode a motorcycle wearing his Indy-Style leather jacket with Sean Connery sitting in the sidecar. Below is a YouTube clip of that motorcycle scene:
The leather jackets captured that persona and charisma of the World War II pilots and aviators flying missions and the Airborne units dropping into action during World War II. Their exploits during the war inspired the creation of these actors’ characters that captivated audiences for generations in the movies like: In all of Indiana Jones’ Movies, The Red Tails, Behind Enemy Lines, Midway (2019 version), Memphis Bell, Band of Brothers, TOP GUN, and the new movie Devotion. Just to highlight a few movies where either the A-2 or G-1 Leather Flight Jacket was worn. The TOP GUN:MAVERICK Movie was so popular that it was re-released to movie theaters during the Holidays, after its first release date in June 27, 2022.
In my opinion, The 2019 version of Midway was one of the best movies that captured this decisive naval battle that turned the war for U.S. Military in the Pacific. The other group that help turned the tie in the Pacific for U.S. was the Flying Tigers, who wore the G-1 Leather Flight Jacket with the flying tiger patch on the front left panel of the jacket. We also carry the G-1 Leather Flight Jacket with the tiger patches, see below:
Some of these World War II Veterans, right up through Vietnam and Afghanistan, transitioned back to civilian life to start up and/or join motorcycle clubs that are still in existence today with groups like: Combat Vets Association, Buffalo Soldier, Band of Brothers, Leathernecks, Rolling Thunder, Purple Heart Riders, Red Knights, and Veterans of Vietnam, just to name a very few of the many motorcycle clubs. If you are a Veteran, you can reach out to one of these clubs for assistance.
The Leather Jacket is a standard attire for these Veterans motorcyclists, especially those that are part of Veteran groups that are more than just riding clubs, but perform work in the community for kids and others groups. These Veteran motorcycle clubs extend a helping hand to other Veterans, as well as to the community where they work and live. Reach out to Veteran Groups and allow them to just talk and appreciate what they have done.
My A-2 Leather Flight Jacket that is my Sports Jacket of Choice
When I ride my INDIAN Scout Motorcycle to and from our hangar, I wear my A-2 Leather Flight Jacket that is also my go-to sports jacket that I wear representing my sportswear and performance business. I feel just as comfortable wearing my A-2 Leather Jacket with blue jeans as I do wearing my A-2 with khakis for business.
Just like my INDIAN Scout Bobber Motorcycle that attracts attention, my A-2 Leather Flight Jacket with my company’s logo and name attracts attention everywhere my travels take me. You can’t go wrong with the durability and that classic look and feel that is carefree of these leather flight jackets. It doesn’t need dry cleaning, but just a wipe down with a paper towel with a light mixture of dish detergent (1 teaspoon) to water (1 cup) and you’re ready for your next appointment.
These are like neon signs that can be worn, but comes with their own spokesperson, who is an associate, a client, or a loyal customer. These are great leather jackets for service awards and for appreciation of associates or clients. These are great to have in the company’s store for customers to purchase with your company’s logo and name on them. We carry these in our Flight Operations Center Collection that you can use the link below to shop: