Images(3)

Badge, Identification

Object number2017.91.16

Date1941-1953

MediumLeather

Credit LineIn memory of Harry "Bus" Means

DescriptionFlat rectangular leather name badge. Front is textured leather with imprinted black text in English and Chinese. Reverse is raw dark brown leather. [Object is not marked directly with the catalog number.]DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth: 2.75 x 3.625 x 0.125 in. (7 x 9.2 x 0.3 cm)
InscriptionsFront has imprinted black text in English and Chinese: "BUS MEANS / [Chinese] / U. S. M. C. / TSINGTAO CHINA / [Chinese]".
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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