Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This is an example of a standard issue AN-6540-2S flying helmet for the United States military during World War II and the immediate post war period.

This helmet was worn by Lt. Col. Marion Carl. He graduated as a member of the first test pilot class at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in 1945. He conducted pioneering jet operations from aircraft carriers; commanded VMF-122, the first Marine Corps squadron equipped with jets; and was an early Marine helicopter test pilot. He wore this helmet suit during his career as a test pilot, including his world speed record flight with the Douglas D-558-1.

 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 Slote & Klein Inc.
 Physical Description United States Marine Corps Type Type AN6540-2S Summer flying helmet; khaki cotton helmet; black rubber earphones with chamois padding on the inside of the earphones; cow hide buckle chin strap with chamois chin pad; brown leather chin strap with chin cup; brow flap; cow hide straps with snaps on back of helmet to hold flying goggle strap; Manufacturer's tag with embroidered gold lettering sewn in back inside of helmet (see marks for full text). Dimensions Clothing: 15.2 x 24.1 x 25.4cm (6 in. x 9 1/2 in. x 10 in.)
 Materials Cotton, leather, brass, stainless steel, suede, rubber, velvet
 Inventory Number A19490034001 Credit Line Transferred from the United States Navy, Bureau of Aeronautics Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.