Images(5)

Lighter

Object number2017.91.14

Manufacturer Evans Case Company

Date1941-1953

MediumMetal; Paint; Brass; Fiber

Credit LineIn memory of Harry "Bus" Means

DescriptionBlack painted lighter. Flat circular body that is painted black and has name hand-engraved on proper right side. Top section has brass-plated(?) button and ignition mechanism. Underside has two circular metal dials. Fabric wick is black from use.DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth: 2.375 x 2.25 x 0.563 in. (6 x 5.7 x 1.4 cm)
InscriptionsBody has hand-engraved text on proper right side "Bus".
MarksUnderside has circular metal dial with text "EVANS / U.S. PAT. RE. / NO 19023".
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

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