For collectors and enthusiasts of U.S. military surplus, determining the production date of jackets, pants, and other gear is an essential step. By examining procurement numbers like DA, DSA, DLA, and SPO, you can easily pinpoint when an item was made. These numbers often include the year, helping to uncover the garment’s historical context.

To determine the era of a U.S. military garment, first identify the type of contract number on the label:

• DA (Defense Agency): Used from 1953 to 1962.
• DSA (Defense Supply Agency): Active from 1962 to 1977.
• DLA (Defense Logistics Agency): In use from 1978 to 1993.
• SPO, SPM, and similar numbers: Found on items from 1994 to the present.

If the label only has a manufacturer stamp, the item likely predates 1953, aligning with the Korean War era.

Understanding DA, DSA, DLA, and SPO Numbers

1. DA Numbers (Defense Agency)

Used from 1953 until 1962, DA numbers were primarily used during the Korean War and the early years of the Vietnam War. These numbers often don't include a specific year but can be traced to items from the early Cold War period.

• Example: DA-36-243-QM(CTM)11459-C-62 (1962)

Additionally during this time period it is very common to see the date directly printed on the label including the pattern date and the manufacturing date. 

• Example:
  CONT: QM - (CTM)- 1711-01-748-C-58
  DATE: 31 JANUARY 1958
  SPEC. MIL-C.11448B, AMEND #1
  PATT. DATE: 14 MARCH 1957

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2. DSA Numbers (Defense Supply Agency)

From the 1962 until 1978, the DSA system was used. These numbers can be more complex, with several variations:

• 1962-1964: The DSA-1 prefix was used, with a suffix like YY-C, where Y stands for the year.

• Example: DSA-1-2157-63-C (1963)

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• 1965: The DSA-1 prefix appeared, but with no suffix for the year.

• Example: DSA-1-8599

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• 1966: The DSA-100 prefix was used, again with no dating suffix.

• Example: DSA-100-2151

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• 1967-1977: The DSA-100 prefix was followed by a YY-C suffix, where YY represented the year.

• Example: DSA-100-69-C-1162 (1969)

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• Example: DSA-100-69-C-0762 (indicates 1969)

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3. DLA Numbers (Defense Logistics Agency)

The DLA system, began in 1978 until 1993, follows a simpler format:

• Example: DLA100-91-C-0450 (indicates 1991)

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4. SPO Numbers (System Program Office)

From the 1994 onward, SPO numbers became more common, and these typically followed the format of SPO100-97-D-1234, where the first two digits (e.g., "97") indicate the year (1997).

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Conclusion

By understanding how to read DA, DSA, DLA, and SPO numbers, you can easily identify the production year of U.S. military jackets, pants, and other gear. This knowledge not only adds value for collectors but also provides fascinating insights into the historical context of the item.

Rare Gear USA was able to acquire two jackets owned by Captain Bruce K. Lloyd. A beautiful Vintage Us Navy G1 Leather Jacket from 1961 and a Vintage Us Navy M-69F Leather Transport Aircraft Coat from WW2 Era. See pictures bellow.

Captain Bruce K. Lloyd, Jr.: A Legacy of Naval Aviation and Engineering Excellence

Captain Bruce K. Lloyd, Jr. was born on December 7, 1917, in Somerset, Pennsylvania, to Marion and Bruce K. Lloyd, Sr. He grew up in a time of rapid technological advancements and global tensions, which would soon draw him into a life of service to his country. Following his graduation from high school, Lloyd earned a prestigious Congressional Appointment to the United States Naval Academy, a testament to his academic and leadership potential.

In June 1940, Lloyd graduated from the Naval Academy, entering a world on the brink of global conflict. He was selected to become a Naval Aviator after completing the obligatory sea duty tour, a path that would soon distinguish him in the annals of naval aviation history. His initial assignment was as one of the gunnery officers aboard the USS Tuscaloosa (CA-37), a New Orleans-class heavy cruiser. The Tuscaloosa was a formidable vessel, armed with 8-inch guns and designed for long-range engagements, serving as a symbol of American naval power.

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor marked Lloyd's 24th birthday, a day that would forever change the course of his life and the nation. In response to the attack, Lloyd was swiftly sent to Pensacola, Florida, where he began his flight training. By late 1942, he had earned his coveted "Wings of Gold," signifying his status as a Naval Aviator. He was then assigned to fly the Consolidated PBY Catalina, an amphibious patrol bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. The PBY was instrumental in search and rescue missions across the vast expanses of the Pacific, a role that Lloyd undertook with distinction during the war.

After the conclusion of World War II, Lloyd's pursuit of excellence led him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he earned a Master's Degree in Aeronautical Engineering. This advanced education set the stage for his future contributions to naval aviation technology. Subsequently, Lloyd served as a pilot of the Lockheed P2V Neptune, a maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircraft. He rose to become the Commanding Officer of a P2V squadron, VC-8, stationed at the Naval Air Station Patuxent River (PAX River).

Lloyd's skills and experience earned him a place in the prestigious Test Pilot School as part of Class XVI, where he honed his abilities in evaluating new aircraft. His test pilot tour at PAX River was followed by an assignment as the Executive Officer of the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CVA-42), a Midway-class aircraft carrier. The Roosevelt, with its powerful air wing and advanced radar systems, played a critical role during the Cold War.

Following his time on the Roosevelt, Lloyd was assigned to a joint staff position in Hawaii before returning to PAX River in 1960. There, he served as the Commanding Officer of Service Test and later as the Test Coordinator for the entire area, eventually acting as Commander of the Naval Air Test Center (NATC). During this period, Lloyd underwent helicopter training and went on to set numerous international speed records, achievements that earned him and his copilot the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Captain Lloyd retired from the Navy in 1963, having become qualified to fly every type of aircraft in the Navy's inventory, including fixed-wing planes, jets, and helicopters. His post-Navy career saw him join Boeing Aircraft as the chief engineer and chief test pilot for the company's helicopter division. In this role, Lloyd was instrumental in the design and armament upgrades of the Boeing CH-47 Chinook, a dual-rotor helicopter that played a vital role in the Vietnam War.

After retiring from Boeing, Captain Bruce K. Lloyd, Jr. chose to channel his vast knowledge and experience into education. He took on the role of a teacher, imparting his wisdom in Physics and Advanced Mathematics to students at a private high school in the Philadelphia area. His passion for learning and dedication to mentoring young minds became a new chapter in his life, reflecting his commitment to service in all its forms.

Captain Lloyd passed away in 1987, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in naval aviation, engineering, and education. He was laid to rest with honor at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to his country. His wife, Jane Johnstone Lloyd, with whom he shared over 45 years of marriage, passed away in 1993 and was buried beside him at Arlington, where they now rest together.

If you have some US Military Uniforms and want to share your story or a family member story through our website. Please contact us at cs@raregearusa.com