The Type HGU-2A/P protective flying helmet was standard issue for U.S. Air Force flight crews during the early 1960s. First issued in 1961, the HGU-2A/P was an improved version of the HGU-2/P by the addition of ventilation holes, extra padding, and the H-154/AIC headset.
This particular helmet was worn by the donor, Capt. Ben Allen while flying F-105s from Takhli Royal Air Force Base in Thailand in 1965. During his tour of duty, Capt Allen flew 81 combat missions over North Vietnam.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.