A classic WW2 US Tanker Jacket, specially produced for younger military history enthusiasts.

This US Army WW2 Children's Tanker Jacket is manufactured by Kay Canvas and based on the famous American 2nd Pattern Tanker Jacket, officially designated the “Jacket, Combat, Winter.”

The children's version follows the same basic construction and detailing as the Kay Canvas adult reproduction, featuring a heavy cotton outer shell, warm wool-blend lining and the characteristic elasticated collar, cuffs and waistband.

A classic 2nd Armored Division “Hell on Wheels” shoulder patch is already sewn onto the jacket, making it ready for a young 2nd Armored Division impression.

The 2nd Pattern jacket is distinguished by its practical slash-style front pockets. A chrome Talon front zipper with leather pull tab completes the distinctive period appearance.

An excellent children's garment for reenactment, living history, WW2 events, museum activities or historical displays, allowing younger family or group members to become part of the presentation.

Available in children's sizes from 5/6 through 13/14 years. The fabrics and principal features correspond with those used on the Kay Canvas adult Tanker Jacket reproduction.

Historical Context

The American Tanker Jacket was developed during WW2 as a warm combat jacket for tank and armoured vehicle crews. Its official US Army designation was “Jacket, Combat, Winter.”

Its short comfortable cut, warm lining and elasticated collar, cuffs and waistband made the jacket popular with servicemen beyond armoured units as well. The later 2nd Pattern version featured the characteristic slash-style pockets now strongly associated with the classic WW2 Tanker Jacket.

The shoulder patch fitted to this children's jacket represents the famous 2nd Armored Division, nicknamed “Hell on Wheels.” The division was activated at Fort Benning, Georgia, on 15 July 1940. George S. Patton played an important role in its early training and subsequently commanded the division.

During WW2, the 2nd Armored Division served in campaigns including North Africa and Sicily before moving to England in preparation for operations in Northwest Europe. On 9 June 1944, D-Day +3, the division landed on Omaha Beach.

“Hell on Wheels” subsequently fought through Normandy and France into Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. The division also played an important part during the Battle of the Bulge and the Allied advance towards the Rhine and Elbe.