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Cap, Garrison

Object number2017.91.8

Distributor American Legion (founded 1919)

OriginIndianapolis, IN

MediumWool; Satin; Leather

Credit LineIn memory of Harry "Bus" Means

DescriptionAmerican Legion garrison cap, size 7 1/8. Dark blue-black fabric hat with yellow piping. Interior is lined with light yellow satin fabric and has brown leather sweatband. Proper left side has embroidered American Legion emblem above yellow embroidered city and state. Proper right side has embroidered yellow post number. DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth (Flat): 5.125 x 11.563 x 0.625 in. (13 x 29.4 x 1.6 cm)
InscriptionsProper left side has embroidered American Legion emblem with yellow text "AMERICAN / US / LEGION" above yellow embroidered text "NEW WILMINGTON, PA."

Proper right side has embroidered yellow number "728".
MarksText imprinted on sweatband "100% ALL WOOL / M.'F.'R. 420 / DISTRIBUTED BY / AMERICAN LEGION / INDIANAPOLIS".

Interior has black tag with gold text "7 1/8".

Inside rear of cap there is a white tag with black printed text "[logo with text "UNITED HATTERS, CAP & MILLINERY WKRS INT. UNION"] / REGISTERED / 2371095".
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

Related institution American Legion Post 728

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