Original British Made WWII U.S. Ike Jacket with Theater Made CBI Insignia – China/Burma/India Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. It was the early days of the China-Burma-India Theater, which had just been established (CBI). Supplies had not yet arrived in the theater, and there were few summer issue uniforms to choose from. Commanding General Joseph Stilwell of the CBI allowed the acquisition of lighter and more practical British military shorts and jungle shirts on the local level.

At Karachi, the Americans mixed in with the British soldiers wearing the same uniforms. Problems developed when soldiers in town on leave had to be returned to their station by MPs. Each side was increasingly enraged at the other. General Stilwell was asked by the British commander in Karachi to authorize a mark or emblem that would distinguish the American men from the British. “‘Dorn, see what you can come up with,’ the old guy said.” Colonel Frank “Pinky” Dorn, a member of Stilwell’s Headquarters staff, came up with a solution to it.

Starting with the traditional red, white, and blue American flag, Dorn created a design that was reflective of the CBI Theater. He simplified the shield by substituting the twelve-pointed Chinese Sun and the Star of India for the stars of the United States. Dorn responded to a question regarding Burma’s lack of representation by saying: “Burma’s national symbol was a peacock, so screw it! Besides, we’d already lost the dreadful location.”

In an Indian uniform store, he had a few examples of his design manufactured, and one was stitched onto the left sleeve of his uniform jacket. He wore the jacket to dinner with General Stilwell the next day. Stilwell snarled, “What the hell is that thing you’re wearing?” “That, sir, is your new theater shoulder patch, a sight of beauty to see and protection against British night sticks for American skulls.”

The uniform is in great condition. There is no visible damage to it. All buttons and suspension hooks are present and still stitched, as well as all bullion insignia. It has British markings on it, and even has a serial number on it: C311C311. There is also a handwritten number on it: W-7481. This is a very beautiful example of a British made “Ike” U.S. CBI uniform.

Approximate Measurements:
Collar to Shoulder: 9”
Shoulder to Sleeve: 22”
Shoulder to Shoulder: 18”
Chest Width: 16”
Waist Width: 16”
Hip Width: 16”
Front Length: 21”