509th Parachute Infantry Battalion Operation Torch Legacy Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Long-sleeve T-shirt — Next Level 3601
Athletic Fit – Runs a little small. Please see sizing guide.
Measurements are in inches. Compare with a well-fitting long-sleeve shirt you already own.
| Size | Chest width (laid flat) | Body length |
|---|---|---|
| S | 18.5" | 28" |
| M | 20" | 29" |
| L | 21.5" | 30" |
| XL | 23.5" | 31" |
| 2XL | 25.5" | 32" |
Lay the shirt flat on a level surface without stretching. Smooth out folds, then measure straight across from side seam to side seam, one inch below the armhole seams.
Measure body length from the high point of the shoulder beside the neck to the bottom hem.
Chest width is half the garment circumference. Doubling it gives the measurement around the garment, not a recommended body chest size.
Chest-width manufacturing tolerance: ±0.5 inch.
This design honors the 509th Parachute Infantry Battalion and Army's first combat jump during Operation Torch in November, 1942. The design features a printed recreation of the original 509th Geronimo/Gingerbread Man patch, including it's hand-sewn lettering on the let-chest and back.
- 4.3-ounce, 100% combed ring-spun cotton jersey, 32 singles
- Self 3/8-inch shoulder-to-shoulder binding
- Crew neck
Athletic Fit – Runs a little small. Please see sizing guide.
This design is also available as
Unit History & Information
On November 8, 1942, the 509th made the U.S. Army’s first combat parachute jump near Oran, Algeria, during Operation Torch. The assault launched from England in 39 C-47 aircraft and crossed roughly 1,500 miles to North Africa. A second combat jump followed at Youks-les-Bains on November 15, after the paratroopers repacked their own parachutes.
Although the first operation encountered serious difficulties, it demonstrated the reach of airborne forces and helped establish their wartime role. The 509th went on to fight in Italy and southern France and at Anzio, earning two Presidential Unit Citations during World War II.