Original Item: Only One Available. The 416th Tactical Fighter Squadron was one of the very first units to experience combat in Vietnam as early as 1965. This particular Vietnam War boonie hat is a typical cap that a U.S. soldier used and brought back from the Vietnam War theater. It features locally made of "In-country" produced embroidered patches for 416 TFS SILVER KNIGHTS (Tactical Fighter Squadron) and VIETNAM as well as two DUI Pins(Distinctive Unit Insignia). The hat is in great condition, with a lovely "salty" appearance that suggests it was worn in a hot tropical climate such as Southeast Asia. The hat's condition is a testament to its durability, as it has survived the harsh conditions of war and remains a valuable piece of military history. Size is a 56cm or US 7. 

This Vietnam War boonie hat is a rare find, made in country and in size 56cm. Boonie hats, also known as bush hats, were popular among American soldiers during the Vietnam War. They were designed to provide shade and protection from the sun and rain, making them an essential piece of gear for soldiers in Southeast Asia.

The hat features a wide brim that provides ample coverage and protection from the elements. Some designs also have snaps over one or both ears to fold up the flaps for a different look or to improve sight/hearing. Although there have been various designs over the years, all of them have the same basic shape.

Insignia on the Bush Hat:
Right Side: VIETNAM Tab, Woven, White on Red. Made in Vietnam.
Left Side: 416th Tactical Fighter Squadron Patch, Motto - Silver Knights, white stitching on blue half-circle, theater made.
Left Front: Tactical Air Command DI. Made in Vietnam.
Right Front. 150th Infantry Regt, 150th Regimental Combat Team. US Made – Danmark NY 6D

Vietnam souvenir book.
Map on inside back cover. Inscription: David L. Wilson
Bien Hoa 20 Mar 65, 26 Jul 65; Da Nang, 10 April

Although we have the name of the soldier inscribed on the back cover of the booklet, we have not been successful in sourcing any significant service information related to the said individual. However, this grouping holds immense potential for more comprehensive and detailed research, which can help uncover valuable insights into the life and service of the soldier. You can use this information to better understand their contributions, sacrifices, and experiences during their time in service.

A fantastic lot ready for further research and display.

416th Tactical Fighter Squadron –

Redesignated 416th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 1 July 1958
Inactivated on: 16 June 1964
Activated 15 April 1967
Discontinued 1 July 1972

Vietnam War Service
In June 1964, the 416th moved to England Air Force Base, Louisiana, where it joined the 3d Tactical Fighter Wing. From 17 October through 7 December 1964, the squadron deployed a flight to Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, where it operated under various higher headquarters. This deployment, however, was just a precursor to even greater involvement in Southeast Asia (SEA) as the entire squadron deployed there in March 1965. It operated in turn from Clark Air Base, Philippines, Da Nang Air Base, South Vietnam, Bien Hoa Air Base, South Vietnam, and again at Clark until July 1965, when it returned to England AFB. While in SEA, the unit flew 1,711 combat sorties between 19 March and 14 July to fly flak suppression, weather reconnaissance, MiG combat air patrol, and air strike missions.

The 416th deployed with the 3d Wing to SEA in November 1965 to Tan Son Nhut Air Base, South Vietnam. There, the 6250th Combat Support Group controlled the squadron's operations until June 1966, when it rejoined the 3d at Bien Hoa. The 416th remained at Bien Hoa until its April 1967 reassignment to the 37th Tactical Fighter Wing. In May, the squadron moved to Phù Cát Air Base without a break in combat missions.