Suit, Flier's
Object number2017.91.4
Date1941-1953
MediumNylon(?); Fabric; Metal; Plastic; Paint
Credit LineIn memory of Harry "Bus" Means
DescriptionUnited States Marine Corps (USMC) flight suit. Olive drab nylon(?) fabric. One-piece long-sleeve jump suit with stand-up collar. Double-tongued zipper down front opening to base of torso. One pocket on each side of chest; each with light brown plastic button. Tightening tab on each hip has three associated brown plastic buttons. Proper left sleeve has multi-sectioned pocket on upper section. Each hip has pass-through slit. Front of each thigh has zippered pocket. Bottom of each pant leg has pocket on front with light brown plastic button and zippered pocket on back. DimensionsHeight x Width (a - Width between shoulder seams): 63.75 x 18.75 in. (161.9 x 47.6 cm)InscriptionsInside back at top is black stenciled text "H. E. MEANS".
Historical NotesPart of a collection related to Harry "Bus" Means. This extensive collection of military uniforms and equipment relates to the life and career of U.S. Marines Corps chief flight mechanic Sergeant Harry “Bus” Means of New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. Means served with multiple units during WWII and immediately afterwards, including the “Bombing Banshees” VMSB-244 flight squadron that participated in the occupation of China and the Philippines. Means served through 1946, then returned to service during the Korean War, so his story represents the Cold War history of those whose military participation did not end with the official surrender of the Japanese in WWII. The collection contains artifacts representing the post-War occupation of China and the Pacific Islands, and also reminders of the regional tensions that led to conflict again in Southeast Asia within ten years. The collection also includes more general materials from Mean’s childhood in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, and his civilian occupations, such as his role as a USPS mail carrier.
Previous owner
Sergeant Harry E. Means
Related institution
United States Marine Corps
Related institution
Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 244
On View
Not on view
1941-1953
