Item Description
Original Item: One-Of-A-Kind. This is an incredible example of a soldier’s “souvenir” blanket. All patches were hand stitched and was meant to be a reminder of service during WWII. Many GIs returning home brought home souvenirs such as battlefield finds, edged weapons, helmets, uniform items, rifles and so on. Some soldiers collected patches from various units and would stitch them on curtains, clothing, hats and in this case, US Army regulation wool blankets.
There are over 50 total patches featured on this blanket which measures 73” x 51”. One of the patches featured is a “Boxing Bee” which is one of many Disney inspired Squadron patches seen on the leather flight jackets of WWII.
By the time America entered WWII, Disney animations had proven themselves as true feature-length films with box-office toppers like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia, and Dumbo. Disney’s animated shorts had already gained immense popularity to the point where Mickey Mouse was depicted on the patch of a Naval Reserve Squadron.
Although unsanctioned by Disney, the pre-war patch started a trend that exploded across the military during WWII. In fact, Disney had to dedicate five artists to the full-time task of filling requests for military insignias. The Navy in particular had a fondness for
incorporating Disney characters into its insignias.
A lovely memento of WWII ready for further research and display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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