Images(3)

Tool, Vehicle

Object number2017.91.15

Manufacturer North American Aviation

Date1941-1953

MediumMetal; Plastic; Paint(?)

Credit LineIn memory of Harry "Bus" Means

DescriptionAircraft maintenance tool. Black plastic handle. Head of tool is flat silver metal and has two lobes. Rear of handle has flat silver metal tab. Both sides of handle have company logo and name in white. One side of tool head has engraved text and symbol.DimensionsLength x Width x Depth: 4.563 x 1.563 x 0.438 in. (11.6 x 4 x 1.1 cm)
InscriptionsOne side of tool head has engraved text "T58" and symbol with text "H / T".
MarksBoth sides of handle have company logo with text "N / AA" with text to the right "NORTH AMERICAN / AVIATION".
Historical NotesDzus fastener or turning tool used to attach panels to aircraft. Part 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 afterward, 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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