Catch-22 (1970) Screen Worn Bomber Jacket

I had the greatest pleasure of acquiring this genuine original 1942 bomber jacket. Moreover, it’s a screen worn bomber jacket used in the film classic Catch-22 (1970). Therefore, I was thrilled the previous owner shared his first-hand history. His involvement in the film as a flight engineer/extra in the production was similarly fascinating. His story below.

The Story

I wore the jacket on the set of Catch-22 Outside Guaymas, Mexico. I believe in 1968. A complete Army Airforce base was constructed in the desert. Complete with a 5,000-foot runway. I worked every day wearing a WWII uniform. We never knew when we were being filmed. That is to say, we just went about our business. I was 22 years old and a mechanic at Tallmantz Aviation. We had contracted with Paramount Pictures to furnish the film’s aircraft flight crews for the 16 Mitchell B25s used in the film

I flew in most of the scenes during the movie. I was a flight engineer/aircraft mechanic. For example, I was in the bombardier/nose compartment of one of the aircraft in the opening scene. I recall we did three takes. 16 aircraft rolling for takeoff at the same time! The most dangerous and demanding scene shot in the movie.

And lastly

He shared some never before published photos he had personally taken on set. Orson Welles and Buck Henry featured in some of his pics.

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Original WWII bomber jacket - Screen worn in Catch-22 (1970)
Original WWII bomber jacket – Screen worn in Catch-22 (1970).
Catch-22 (1970) flight crews / extras on set.
Catch-22 (1970) flight crews / extras on set.
Catch-22 (1970) Orson Welles and Buck Henry on set.
Catch-22 (1970) Orson Welles and Buck Henry on set.