This flying vest was worn by Lt. Lewis Webster while participating on the aerial bombing test in the Chesapeake Bay in 1921. The 1st Provisional Air Brigade commanded by Gen. Billy Mitchell demonstrated the value of aircraft attacking surface warships. Webster piloted a Martin MB-10 and flew numerous strikes against submarines, destroyers, and most notability the U.S.S. Alabama. The back of the vest was signed by various members of the 1st Provisional Air Brigade.
Bequest from the Arthur L. Webster Estate
Country of Origin: United States
Dimensions:
Clothing: 61 x 50.8 x 2.5cm (24 x 20 x 1 in.)
Materials:
Exterior Shell: Leather
Lining: Linen
Physical Description:
United States Army Air Service (USAAS) pilot's flying vest; light tan exterior shell with a light brown linen lining; nine buttons down front; a winged American roundel insignia hand drawn in black, red, and blue ink; 62 names of members of the 1st Provisional Air Brigade printed and/or signed on the back of the vest.
