This is an incredibly captivating one-of-a-kind piece where military and denim culture intersect.
The base for this piece is the Levi's 70505 BIG "E" denim jacket, known as the quintessential vintage denim jacket. Produced from the late 1960s to the early 1970s, the 70505 features a refined silhouette that evolved from the 3rd type and remains a highly popular staple among vintage denim jackets to this day.Based on this 70505 model, this piece is a tour jacket believed to have been custom-made by a U.S. Air Force soldier stationed in Korea. From the Vietnam War era through the Cold War, soldiers stationed overseas would often order jackets embroidered with patches as mementos, and this item is a valuable example that strongly reflects that culture.
On the back, in large letters,
"The 12th Commandment"
and
"RED HORSE" and
"554 CES"
.
The phrase "The 12th Commandment" is sometimes used as a joke or slang among soldiers, reflecting the unit's unique sense of humor in reference to the Ten Commandments of the Bible.
The Red Horse design in the center is believed to be the unit’s mascot, and at the bottom is
"Thou shalt not hassle"
is embroidered at the bottom.
The "554 CES" listed here refers to the
554th Civil Engineering Squadron
.
During the Cold War, this unit was responsible for the maintenance and management of airfield facilities and base infrastructure at U.S. military bases in Korea. Although not a combat unit, it was indispensable to base operations. Since this unit was stationed in Korea in the late 1970s, the jacket can be said to have been made during that period.
The right chest features an embroidered design featuring the flags of the United States, the United Nations, and South Korea, symbolizing the history of U.S. Forces Korea since the Korean War.
On the right sleeve is
"KOREA / Mission Chu Col Village"
is sewn on, which is likely a commemorative patch representing the villages, entertainment districts, and areas around the base that the soldiers actually visited, offering a glimpse into the authentic daily life of the soldiers stationed there at the time.
On the left sleeve,
"NO PARKING EXCEPT WITH GIRLS"
on the left sleeve is another example of the joke patches favored by soldiers of that era. These playful embellishments are a unique charm of tour jackets.
Furthermore, this piece isn’t just a simple patch job; it features extremely intricate embroidery on the back, chest, and even the inside, conveying that the original owner crafted it with special care and sentiment.
The 70505 itself has faded beautifully, showcasing the classic indigo fade characteristic of vintage denim. This is a collectible piece that masterfully blends three elements: military, tour jacket, and vintage denim.
Country of Manufacture: United States (Jacket Body)
Era: Circa 1970s (Customization estimated to be from the 1970s)
Base: Levi's 70505 BIG "E"
Unit: 554th Civil Engineering Squadron (554 CES)
Stationed in: South Korea
The jacket shows signs of wear typical of vintage denim, but both the embroidery and patches are in good condition. While there is some fading and wear from years of use, these characteristics contribute to the piece’s excellent overall character.
Please note that this is a used item and cannot be returned.
Size (Flat Measurements)
Shoulder width: 47 cm
Chest width: 54 cm
Length: 58 cm
Sleeve length: 61 cm
