Suits made by the British Special Operations Executive were adopted and used by the US Office of Strategic Services. Suit was designed to drop secret agents behind enemy lines in local civilian attire to gather intelligence, coordinate local resistance, establish communications networks and other tasks. Once on the ground the suit would be removed. The agent would then pull out the spade and bury the suit and parachute.
Suit found at a farmers home in Southern France
Back of suit note that the large pocket on the back has been removed and strip of fabric has been sewn to close the inside access.
Comparison of the inside and outside of the suit to show fading
Suit marked '4' for sizing the largest size made and also marked 'M3' for unknown reason
Zipper marked 'DOT Made in England'
Zipper for relief has been removed
Another comparison showing the inside of one of the sleeves to show the colors with minimal fading
Knife pocket on lower left sleeve
Outside view of chest pocket
Inside view of chest pocket
Inside view of chest pocket construction
Outside view of right leg pocket
Inside view of right leg pocket
Left leg pocket for pistol
Outside view of spade pocket
Inside view of spade pocket
Pocket for spade and handle
Close up of fabric sewn to cover rear opening
OSS agents being preped for an operation
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