US Navy Wool Flap Front Pants / Navy Blue 13-Button Uniform Trousers Crackerjack

Wow, what can really be said about these pants??? To start, they’re a size 32R. They have the sailor’s name “KAVANAGH, J.D.” on the inside tag. They do have a mothball odor from being stored for many, many years. PRICELESS!!! Here’s a little history for you!! The 13-button pants worn by the US Navy have a complex history, with some saying the buttons represent the 13 original colonies, while others say the Navy's official explanation is more likely the reason: 13 original colonies Some say the 13 buttons represent the 13 original colonies. Symmetrical look The Navy's official explanation is that the 13 buttons were added to achieve a symmetrical look. The original Crackerjack trousers had seven buttons, but the Navy increased the size of the broadfall and added six more buttons. Hidden buttons Some say there were two additional buttons hidden from view, and that the buttons were beveled in the back so that the entire front could be torn open with one motion. Zipper flies During the Korean War era, the Navy switched from 13-button flaps to zipper flies. Myth and legend The classic US Navy uniform hasn't changed much since before the Civil War, so it comes with a lot of myths and legends. Sailor pants The 13-button pants are also known as "Sailor Pants" or "Crackerjack Pants". They are part of the Navy's Fall/Winter uniform and are worn for functions when Dinner Dress, or Full Dress Uniforms, are not prescribed.