What does Sgt. Hack have to do with the Navy?

You might ask yourself what does Sgt. Hack, USA (Ret), have to do with the Navy?  GREAT COATS!
U.S. Navy Jackets and coats are well known for their warmth.  The traditional coats have been the Pea Coat and the G-1. The coat of choice of the U.S. Navy for centuries, the Pea Coat is the heavy topcoat worn in cold, miserable weather. The name isn’t derived from the “Pea Soup weather” but rather from the heavy coarse twilled blue cloth it was originally created from.  The cloth was sometimes called P cloth and the garment evolved from being called a P-Jacket to later a Pea Coat.  Pea Coats have broad lapels, double breasted fronts with large buttons of either wooden, metal, or plastic buttons and slash pockets.  The standard for original Pea coats was 30 ounces, most often made of heavy Melton cloth, but today coats are made from 22 to 32 ounces.  Known for it warmth in severe weather, the Pea Coat has been worn not only by the military, but has been a staple of students wardrobes at high school and college campuses around the world.
Traditional US Navy  issue Pea Coats are dark blue, but many colors are offered by retailers.  Known not only for their warmth but for their durability, US Navy Pea Coats have been passed down through generations. As time has evolved several new  U.S. Navy Jackets have been introduced.  The A-2  Deck Jacket and the Shipboard Jacket are new entries. Issued to Navy Personnel for inclement and foul weather conditions, the A-2 Deck jacket is water repellent and wind resistant.  The Shipboard Jacket is a U.S. Navy Jacket issued to Navy crewmen. 

 The current, genuine government issue USN Nomex Shipboard Jacket was designed after the attack on the USS Cole in 2000.  It was designed to be a flame resistant and versatile jacket that stayed on the ship and was thus named the Shipboard Jacket.  In June 2014 it became a standard issued jacket.  The Navy has issued this Nomex jacket as a fire resistant, cold weather, windproof alternative to the A-2 Deck jacket.

The G-1 Military Flight Jackets was originally called the M-422A and introduced by the U.S Navy in the 1930’s.  In 1943, this jacket as named by the Navy and the Army Air Forces as the ANJ-3.  It officially became the G-1 in 1947.  Arguably, the G-1 is best know as the leather flight jacket worn by Tom Cruise in the film TOP GUN. The Pea Coat known for its warmth in severe weather has been a staple of students wardrobes at high school and college campuses around world.

Sgt. Hack can Repair your Leather Jacket

Why Replace when Sgt. Hack can repair your favorite leather jacket?   US Wings offers worldwide Professional Leather Jacket Repair services.  Tune-up your old favorite with a new zipper, lining, cuff & waistband and more.  We repair all brands and types of leather jackets, including motorcycle jackets and not just our own.

Professional Leather Jacket Repair Service Options:

ONLY AUTHENTIC FACTORY REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS USED.

• Cuff Replacement – $60: Colors: Dark Brown, Medium Brown, & Black
• Waistband Replacement – $60: Colors: Dark Brown, Medium Brown, & Black
• Zipper Replacement – $60: Colors: Dark Brown & Black; Style: A-2 & G-1
• G-1 Collar Replacement – $90: Color: Dark Brown
• Lining Replacement – $90: Standard Brown/Black Lining (Note: if your jacket does not have an existing lining, there will be an additional $50 charge for adding a jacket lining)
• Escape Map Lining Replacement – $110: Colors: Egg Shell (as seen in Avirex jackets) and Gold
• No Lining Charge – $50 (Charged if your jacket DOES NOT have a lining)
• Patches – $10 per patch: Please take a photo/draw a diagram of where you would like them sewn.
• Navy Flyer’s Creed – $69.95 (Note: Only adding this item to existing lining. If you need the lining replaced, also select Lining Replacement. Banner: approx. 17.75″ x 13″)
• Shorten Sleeves – $70.00 (Final Sale – Please indicate, with white chalk, the desired length to be shortened.)

*Any special requests may result in additional cost. Please contact our Customer Service at (800)650-0659 for questions.

For more information click on LEATHER JACKET REPAIR.

Our turnaround time for repairs is 3-4 weeks, and 4-5 weeks for linings.

What are people saying about Sarge's Indy Jackets?

Hundred's of people are entering the Free Indy Jacket giveaway at US Wings.  Sgt Hack's US Wings contest has received overwhelming reviews about what Indiana Jones and his jacket mean to them. 

Here are some of them:

I recently purchased the US Wings Indy-Style jacket in Kangaroo hide. Bottom line up front: The quality of material and manufacture is outstanding, the customer service and shipping speed were exceptional. I look forward to many, many years (perhaps even multiple generations) of use out of my US Wings Kangaroo Indy-Style Jacket! Highly recommended!

On to the jacket- I can't say enough about the cut and fit of this jacket! I consulted with US Wings customer service (who were extremely helpful), and based on their advice, ordered a large (I'm typically a size 40-42 jacket, depending on manufacturer). When I put the jacket on for the first time, I was stuck by how well it fit! The sleeves, shoulders and chest fell just where I like them- the collar does a slight "off the shoulder" look as seen in some of the Indy films, which I love. The stitching is top notch, and overall quality of the Indy style jacket can't be beat. I have no doubt that this jacket in any of the available hides would be a winner!

The kangaroo skin itself is gorgeous. Mine arrived in a whiskey color that's just stunning! It's a very rich brown, with some depth to it. The leather is initially very stiff, but some handling seems to soften it up fairly quickly. I noticed that the leather will go stiff again in absence of handling. It's a lightweight but very "dense" leather, that I suspect will be very tough and durable. It will certainly age well and look even better as I get it broken in. In my opinion, the kangaroo leather is well worth the cost.

In conclusion I could not be happier with my purchase! US Wings has outdone themselves!
Matthew 9/20/15


 The Indy Jacket makes me want to experience the thrill of going on a long hike in the woods, climbing a mountain range, taking a car across the roads of South America, India, China to live life to the fullest....
Jim 9/20/15


I'm actually watching Raiders of the Lost Ark right now while I'm writing this. I'm again reminded why I, and I would guess most people, love Indy-style jackets: it's a reminder of lost times, of adventure, of history, and of excitement. What other item combines powerful nostalgia with religious imagery? What else mixes history with fiction, adventure with archaeology? Maybe a vintage Yankees cap? Or perhaps a pocket knife passed down from a grandfather? For my money, no other single item conjures up so many feelings as this jacket. It is, quite literally, like wearing a time machine. It is instant excitement and adventure. Whether you're walking through a mall in Nebraska, or sitting in a cafe in Paris, this jacket makes you feel like a legend.
Justin  9/18/15

Few things can bring back the feeling of being a child again. As a child and still as an adult we all crave adventure. Indiana Jones was a passport to adventure. My fond memories of watching the Indiana Jones films with my father are some of my favorites. My father shared these films with me and now I have the pleasure of sharing them with the youngsters in my life. As we age we forget the feeling of excitement, of being sweeped up into amazing storys. But when I share films like "The Temple of Doom" with my kids, I get that feeling back. All 4 indy films hold a special place in my heart. I am also a bit of a history buff. Ww2 as a primary interest. The Indy-style leather jacket is an amazing design. The A2 jacket influence is clear. Such a rugged, timeless style. I from time to time look over the Internet looking at replica jackets. day dreaming of jacket ownership. I personally never have owned a indy jacket. But from all the vendors US Wings seems to be the real deal. Supplying jackets for The Temple of Doom. Everyone else just makes a copy. I have dicided that when
I do decide to treat myself to jacket, US wings is the only way to go. I have heard nothing but amazing things. And I love supporting an American business when possible. Thank you for your time and consideration.

-Nicholas


You too can win a free US Wings Indy jacket!  Go to Indy Jacket Reviews to enter.

Sgt. Hack's For All Occasions Indy Jackets

Sgt. Hack's FAO Leather Jackets, are leather jackets For All Occasions.  From hiking through  the mountains , catching dinner, or hailing a cab on Broadway, FAO Leather Jackets are brought to you by US Wings.  FAO Jackets have the supple, the rugged and the refined jacket for you.  Available in, Striated Lambskin, Lambskin, Vintage Cowhide,Vintage Texas Steerhide, Bison, Kangaroo and Butter-soft Premium Cowhide, we have FAO Leather Jackets for you.  Dress up or Dress Down, the FAO leather Jackets are truly Leather Jackets For All Occasions.

All FAO Leather Jackets have these features:

• Two front cargo pockets with original-style pocket flaps
• Side-entry hand warmer pockets
• Pleated action back for freedom of movement with correctly-sized small side gaps
• Small yoke on back panel
• Original-length side adjustment straps with rectangular sliders
• An interior pocket
• Brown nylon lining
• A brass zipper

This style jacket was originally created by Neil Cooper for the movie RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK.   Neil Cooper, now US Wings, originally conceived the first pattern for the INDIANA JONES movies by combining features of the Air Force A2 and the Navy G1.  Eliminating the cuffs and waist band from the A2 and then adding the Bi-Swing back, small side gaps & side adjustment straps with rectangular sliders, the Indiana Jones jacket was born.  There have been multiple jacket manufacturers who have contributed to the four INDIANA JONES movies but it has been verified that the pedigree originated with Neil Cooper and He in fact supplied 8 jackets for theTEMPLE OF DOOM.   From hiking through the mountains, catching dinner or hailing a cab on Broadway,  FAO Leather Jackets are truly jackets For All Occasions.

A recent satisfied customer stated: "

Ever since I first saw the Raiders of the Lost Arc it was love at first sight with that iconic jacket / light coat. The fact that the jacket is rugged enough to meet the most excruciating demands placed upon it is proven time and time again in the series of movies. Now that we know it's rugged lets get down to the tender side. The lack of gathering at the sleeves and waist, plus a bi swing back means to me that it is comfortable and easy to bundle up in the colder days with no compromise. The fact, once again proven by the movies and the ads by US Wings is that this is a jacket that can be dressed up. Beige pleated pants a denim shirt with tie, and the famous Fedora that US Wings features 2 different models. Then on the other hand you can slip this on so quickly with jeans, t shirt, and baseball cap. What more can you ask for in a jacket. It's one those jackets that becomes what I like to call my " go to jacket ". PS.....Because of the bi swing back you can jump in your car or adventure vehicle without removing this wonderful look, talk about looking cool while driving? Tony  9/17/2015

What kind of Flight Jackets does Sgt. Hack's US Wings Have?

US Wings Flight jackets are known worldwide for their excellent quality and value.  US Wings Flight jackets are available in the finest leathers: Kangaroo, Bison, Horsehide, , Goatskin and Lambskin.
US Wings Flight jackets are manufactured in several styles, most well known as the A2 or the G1. The A2 Leather Flight Jacket, sometimes referred to as the A2 Bomber Jacket was adopted by the Army Air Corps as standard issue in 1931.  The A2 Leather Flight jacket was made famous by the U.S. Army Air Corp airmen of World War II.   The first A2’s were made of Horsehide, then Cowhide and then switched to Goatskin in 1943.  Fliers and crewmen adorned their jackets with squadron patches and often hand painted nose art replicating their aircraft. All  A2 Leather Flight jackets had several distinguishing characteristics: two  front snap patch pockets on either side without hand warmer compartments (hands in pockets were considered unfit for a military bearing), snap-down collar, shoulder straps, knit cuffs and waistband, a single piece of leather on the back to limit stress on the garment, and either lightweight silk or cotton inner lining. In 1943 the Army canceled any further leather jacket contracts in favor of newer cloth-shell jackets like the B-10 and B-15. The jackets continued to be popular with Aircrew members for the balance of the war continuing into the Korean War.  All contracts from 1988 to 1998 were awarded to Neil Cooper USA, now U.S. Wings of Ohio.  According to FLIGHT JACKETS – HELL BENT FOR LEATHER, authored by Derek Nelson and Dave Parsons, the Air Force opted for goatskin instead of the original horsehide because it is very strong but not stiff.  Cooper found that at 3.5 skins per jacket, there weren’t enough American goats available to make 53,000 jackets.  They had to import goat skins from Nigeria, Tasmania and Pakistan.  In 1996 Neil Cooper USA was awarded a contract from the Defense Supply Center, Philadelphia (DSCP), to redesign the A2 Leather Flight Jacket to be more functional and to improve the fit. Side entry pockets were added to the patch pockets and inside wallet pockets were added. The fit was enlarged by adding extra pieces under the arms and on the sides and eliminating the neck clasp.
The G1 Military Flight Jacket was originally called the M-422A and introduced by the U.S. Navy in the 1930’s.  In 1943, this jacket was named by the Navy and the Army Air Forces as the ANJ-3.  It officially became the G1 in 1947. The G1 as compared to the A2 leather flight jacket has a fur lined collar, Bi-Swing back & button down flap pockets on the front. Early jackets were constructed of Goatskin and had a real Mouton collar, subsequently some model issue jackets were constructed of cowhide and have synthetic collars. The G1 is issued to new U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine and U.S. Coast Guard flight crew personnel and remains a current-issue item in Naval Aviation for Officers and Enlisted aviation personnel on flying status.  In 2011, US Wings, developed a WINGS OF GOLD G1 leather military flight jacket to honor the 100 year anniversary of the beginning of Naval Aviation.

The Centennial of Naval Aviation WINGS OF GOLD G1 featured an embroidered Navy WINGS OF GOLD and the NAVAL FLYERS CREED honoring all Navy Flyers.  

CEO David Hack presented the first WINGS OF GOLD silk lining to Admiral Mike Mullen, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.   Arguably, the G1 is best known as the leather flight jacket worn by Tom Cruise in the film TOP GUN.

What does Sgt. Hack and Indy Jackets have in common?

What does Sgt. Hack and Indy Jackets have in common? More than you might know.
Neil Cooper, a former partner of Sgt. Hack originally conceived the first pattern for the INDIANA JONES movies by combining features of the Air Force A2 and the Navy G1.  Eliminating the cuffs and waist band from the A2 and then adding the Bi-Swing back, small side gaps & side adjustment straps with rectangular sliders, the Indy jacket was born. There have been multiple jacket manufacturers who have contributed to the four INDIANA JONES movies but it has been verified that the pedigree originated with Neil Cooper and He in fact supplied 8 jackets for the TEMPLE OF DOOM.
Sgt. Hack, the CEO of US Wings, has passionately and continuously
developed the largest selection of Indy Style jackets in the world, available in  Texas Steerhide, Antique Lambskin, Cowhide, Bison, Kangaroo and Striated Lambskin leathers.

Now you can Win a Free U.S. Wings Indy Style Texas Steerhide  Jacket by sending us a email telling us why you like Indiana Jones and why You like the Indy-Style Jacket.   One jacket will be given away the 15th of every Month until Christmas. One jacket per customer. No purchase necessary.

Click on US Wings Free Indy Jacket.

Sgt Hack

What are Sgt. Hack's Bomber Jackets?

 What are Sgt. Hack's Bomber Jackets?  Sgt. Hack is the CEO of US Wings, the premier manufacture of leather Flight Jackets, Bomber Jackets and Indy Style Jackets in the United States.

Bomber Jackets are very often mislabeled.  True Bomber Jackets are the jackets worn by flight crews in the B-17 and B-24 Aircraft.  The B-3 Jacket is the true Bomber Jacket.   As the planes were not pressured and had open windows for gun ports, flight crews in the B-17 and B-24 aircraft were exposed to sub-zero temperatures. The crews wore B-3 jackets and pants with sheep wool  linings to try to compensate for the cold.

Army-Air Force pilots wore the A-2 flight jacket. The U.S. Navy pilots wore the G-1 jacket.  The A-2 and G-1 Flight jackets are made of leather.  The military issue is Goatskin.  Many other different types of leather are used in the commercial market such as cowhide, bison, horsehide, lamb and kangaroo.

For more information click on US Wings.