Vietnam war circa 1969 United States Air Force Flight Suit named to decorated pilot Major General John Hugh Buckner, 12th Air Force. General Buckner had a prolific career as a command pilot in the Air Force spanning nearly 30 years of service in many capacities. Buckner graduated from West Point in the class of 1943 after a couple short tours stateside he joined the 366th Fighter Squadron, 358th Fighter Group and departed for the European Theater of Operations in October 1943 later becoming commander of the 365th Fighter Squadron. Buckner also deployed in Korea with the Fifth Air Force later becoming commander of the 18th Fighter-Bomber Group. Buckner went on to assume several different non-war commands, training and operational capacities even becoming commandant of the Air University's Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala. Buckner assumed role of vice commander of the 12th Air Force in 1969, and was promoted to Major General in 1970 which is the approximate time this flight suit was issued.
The flight suit itself is in worn condition with notable lint present on the surface as well white threading peaking through the name and US Air Force lettering. The rank and the lettering are direct embroidered making this flight suit more desirable.