Jacket
Object number2017.91.38
Date1940-1942
MediumFabric; Metal; Paint
Credit LineIn memory of Harry "Bus" Means
DescriptionBlue corduroy jacket. Collared with notched lapels. Long-sleeve and waist-length with six metal snap buttons down front opening and one metal snap button on each cuff; snaps were originally painted black. One hip pocket on each side, each with yellow double-ended arrows along opening. Each hip has tightening strap with metal buckle. Proper right breast has embroidered name and text. Proper left breast has applied embroidered FFA emblem patch. Back has embroidered FFA chapter name above and below embroidered FFA emblem at center.DimensionsHeight x Width (Width between shoulder seams): 26.75 x 19 in. (67.9 x 48.3 cm)InscriptionsProper right breast has embroidered yellow text "BUS / SEC".
Proper left breast has embroidered patch with text "VOCATIONAL / FFA / AGRICULTURE".
Back has yellowed embroidered text at top "NEW WILMINGTON" and bottom "CHAPTER" with embroidered FFA emblem at center featuring text "VOCATIONAL / FFA / AGRICULTURE".
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
National FFA Organization
On View
Not on view
1941-1953
c. 1965
c. 1946