This is an example of a standard United States Air Force officer's service cap of the early 1970s.

This particular cap was worn by Brig. Gen. Charles "Chuck" Yeager. Gen. Yeager is most noted for his exploits flying during World War II and breaking the sound barrier in the Bell X-1. He also had an extensive post-war career in Air Force command postings. In 1966, he commanded the 405th Tactical Fighter Wing at Clark Air Base, the Philippines, whose squadrons were deployed on rotational temporary duty in South Vietnam during the early years of United States involvement in the Vietnam War. With the 405th he flew 127 missions. In February 1968, returned the the United States and took command of the 4th Tactical Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina. In July 1969, he was promoted to brigadier general and was assigned as the vice-commander of the Seventeenth Air Force.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear Manufacturer Flight Ace
 Physical Description United States Air Force (USAF) field and general officer's service cap worn by Charles Yeager; blue wool shade no. 1084; black felt visor with black leather edge and silver wire embroidered embellishment (thunder clouds with lightning bolts depicted); black leather chin strap with silver buttons with embossed crest of the USAF depicted; United States Coat of Arms silver officer insignia (eagle with spread wings surmounted by thirteen stars surrounded by laurel leaf wreath, olive branch in right talon and cluster of arrows in left talon, ribbon held in beak with raised letter text "E PLURIBUS UNUM) on front peak of cap. Dimensions Clothing: 26.7 x 28.6 x 15.2cm (10 1/2 in. x 11 1/4 in. x 6 in.)
 Materials Overall: Wool, metal, bullion, leather
Visor and Chin Strap: Leather
 Inventory Number A19870268000 Credit Line Donated by Gen. and Mrs. Charles E. Yeager Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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