USGI Vietnam War Canteen Set | Dated 1969 | M-1956 Cover (Cotton Trim)

Rare "Sage Green" Cotton Sateen field shirt. Contracted by Marine Corps Supply Activity but features "ghost marks" of removed USAF rank insignia. Size 15/33. Unique cross-branch item.

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

High-quality embroidered reproduction of the JCRC (Joint Casualty Resolution Center) shoulder patch. Unit established in 1973 (Nakhon Phanom, Thailand) to recover MIA/KIA personnel from the Vietnam War. Classic shield design with Indochina map. Sew-on type.

Genuine US M7 Bayonet by Imperial. Rare chrome-plated finish for Honor Guard and ceremonial duties. Blade and handle hardware are chromed. Sold as bayonet only (no scabbard).

A pristine collector's piece from the Vietnam War era: USGI M17A1 Field Protective Mask. The mask itself is New Old Stock (NOS) and remains sealed in its original foil packaging. Markings indicate a June 1969 Cure Date and Jan 1972 Pack Date. The set comes complete with the canvas carrier, M1 Eyelens Outserts, and the waterproofing bag. Size Medium.

A scarce piece of US Marine Corps amphibious gear: The Electric Beach Landing Lantern, dated October 1964. Manufactured by Turnsignal Co., Philadelphia, this rugged light was designed to mark beachheads during invasion operations. It features a heavy-duty pole clamp and a selector switch for FLASH or STEADY beam. The interior retains the original set of color filters and spare bulbs, which is a rare find. Sold as a collectible display piece (untested).

Unused Body Armor, Ground Troops, Variable Type vest with plates. Size Medium Long. Contract DSA 100-69-C-0548. Perfect unused condition. There is a small tear in the cotton fabric on the inside back see photo.

The vest was tested by the 1st Cavalry Division in Vietnam from January to May 1967, and although it was too heavy for foot mobile operations, it was recommended for personnel involved in escorting convoys and motorized patrols.

Genuine WWII era USN N-3 Utility shirt. Contract NXSX-84254. Period modified with short sleeves for Vietnam/Tropical service. Features USN stencil and US Navy tape. Warehouse condition. Size 15 (Medium).