A 1981 contract item and one of the very earliest white-label versions. This highly authentic 6-Color Desert jacket even retains the 82nd Airborne Division patch. It comes in the popular MEDIUM-SHORT size.
Commonly known as “Chocolate Chip,” this 6-COLOR DESERT CAMOUFLAGE features a unique pattern with a base of tan, beige, and brown, dotted with small black and white rock-like motifs. It earned this nickname because its fine pattern resembles chocolate chips.
This was one of the earliest desert camouflage patterns adopted by the U.S. military to fully adapt to desert environments, and it is also very famous as the camouflage that came to symbolize the Gulf War.
This particular piece is an early example from the 1981 contract—a must-see among the collection.
The inner label reads:
COAT, COMBAT, CAMOUFLAGE PATTERN, DESERT
CONTRACT NO. DLA100-81-C-2413
SELMA APPAREL CORPORATION
.
One of its standout features is the early white label, which differs from the beige-colored labels used in later years. When collecting “chocolate chip” camouflage pieces chronologically, the presence of these earliest details is truly in a league of its own.
The size is also a very welcome MEDIUM-SHORT.
The size label still bears the STOCK NO. “8415-01-102-9128” and NATO SIZE “6070/9404.”With a MEDIUM body width and a SHORT length, this is a very well-balanced size for wearing vintage pieces as fashion.
What makes this piece even more special are the various patches still attached throughout.
The left sleeve features an “AIRBORNE” tab and the 82nd Airborne Division’s SSI; the chest bears a U.S. ARMY tape, an “ALLEN” name tape, and a Parachutist Badge. A specialist rank insignia also remains on the collar.
All of these elements blend seamlessly with the jacket itself, and the configuration suggests they were likely originally attached at the time. This is not merely a “chocolate chip” jacket; its overwhelming appeal lies in its polished appearance as a genuine airborne unit-spec garment.
In particular, the combination of the bright “6-Color Desert” camouflage with the subdued-color 82nd AIRBORNE patch and U.S. ARMY tape is outstanding. It possesses the authentic appeal unique to genuine military items and exudes a presence entirely different from that of a plain jacket.
Its condition is also a major draw.
Although it’s an authentic piece from over 40 years ago, it shows relatively little wear and is in good overall condition. The characteristic chocolate-chip coloration remains vivid, and the overall look—including the patches—is excellent. It’s perfect for a collection, of course, but it also offers plenty of enjoyment for those who want to wear it and let it develop its own character over time.
It features a 1981 contract, an early white label, a MEDIUM-SHORT fit, and an 82nd AIRBORNE patch.
This is a piece I highly recommend as a MILITARIA 1911 item—not only for enjoying the “chocolate chip” camouflage itself, but also for experiencing early-era details and Airborne specifications all in one garment.
Condition: Used. Shows relatively little wear and is in good condition considering its age. The patches are believed to be original from that era.
Please note that returns are not accepted for used items.
Size (measured flat)
: Shoulder width: 45 cm; Chest
width: 58 cm;
Length: 74 cm;
Sleeve length: 60 cm
