1973 U.S. Navy Data Processing Technician First Class Dress Blue Jacket – 44 X-Long, EUC

Authentic 1973 U.S. Navy Dress Blue Jacket issued to a Data Processing Technician First Class. Manufactured under contract DSA100-73-C-04274, this jacket is constructed from a durable polyester/wool blend and tailored in size 44 X-Long. Features silver buttons appropriate for enlisted ranks and retains its original NSN: 8405-444-2160. Jacket is in excellent used condition with minimal signs of wear, consistent with careful storage and limited use.
The Data Processing Technician (DP) rating was officially established in 1967, evolving from the Machine Accountant rating. These specialists played a pivotal role in the Navy’s transition to digital computing, managing punch card systems and early COBOL-based operations. The DP rating was disestablished in 1997 and merged into the Radioman (RM) rating, later redesignated as Information Systems Technician (IT) in 1999.
Features:
- Rating: Data Processing Technician First Class
- Size: 44 X-Long
- Contract Number: DSA100-73-C-04274
- NSN: 8405-444-2160
- Material: 55% Polyester/ 45% Wool
- Buttons: Silver (Enlisted Rank)
- Condition: Excellent Used – minimal wear, well-preserved
- Date of Manufacture: 1973
- Country of Manufacture: United States by Newell Clothing Co.
- Historical Significance: Vietnam-era digital operations rating
- All photos are of the actual item