The United States Army Air Corps issued the Type B-3 flying coat on May 8, 1934 for open-cockpit and high altitude flying, the B-3 has shearling lining in the body, sleeves, and tall neck. The outer skin of the coat is comprised of horse, cow, and lamb skin hides and treated to reisist water, gasoline, oil, and dirt. The coat remaind in service throughout World War II and is especially associated with high altitude bomber crews.
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-Flight Clothing
Physical Description
Brown shearling winter B-3 flying coat; metal zipper down front; two lower patch pockets; buckle at waist; buckle on collar. Brown leather outer, fully lined in off-white wool shearling. Light brown rectangular leather patch stamped "J.D. EMERSON". Heavy-duty snaps at collar points. Silvertone metal chain above data tag. Black data tag center back below collar "TYPE B-3 / DWG. NO. 33 H 5595 / A.C. ORDER NO.-W535-AC17812 / SIZE 38R" letters pale yellow embroidered, except "38R" which is stamped.
No painting or other ornamentation on back. Leather straps at neck closure and waist cinches appear to be replacements.
Dimensions
Clothing: 71.1 × 55.9 × 15.2cm (2 ft. 4 in. × 1 ft. 10 in. × 6 in.)
Size 38R
Materials
leather, wool, metal
Inventory Number
A19640641001
Credit Line
Donated by Earl A. Emerson
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.