This jacket was worn by the character “Sgt. Maj. William Bailey” played by actor Wallace Beery in the WWII film from 1943, “Salute to the Marines.” This Marine dress blue jacket is complete with a stand up collar, red trim at epaulets, neckline, front closure and cuffs. A United Costumers label reads “W. Berry” and “46”, with the inner sleeve inscribed “M-479” and “72”. The patches and the two gold eagle-anchor insignias on the collar were added for display purposes and were not used in the film.
Mr. Beery can be seen wearing this jacket throughout the entire film, most notably in the film’s climactic battle scenes. Seen prominently after the Japanese invade the Philippines, William leads the fight to defend the Filipinos. After US soldiers successfully blow up a bridge preventing an onslaught, William and his wife Jenny lovingly sit together in a tragic final scene. The jacket is also seen worn in promotional photographs and the film’s movie poster.
“Salute to the Marines” was directed by S. Sylvan Simon and starred Wallace Beery, Fay Bainter, Marilyn Maxwell, and Keye Luke. The film tells the story of retired Sgt. Maj. William Bailey, who, as a non-commissioned officer in the Philippines, gets his chance to lead against a Japanese attack. This garment is in good screen worn condition and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity.
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