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The Gentex HGU-55/P is the standard issue protective flying helmet for the United States Air Force. The helmet is light weight and provides improved peripheral vision from previous helmet designs. The helmet was customized for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds with the unit insignia molded into the exterior shell of the helmet.

This particular helmet was worn by Maj. Nicole Malachowski, the first female pilot chosen to fly with Thunderbirds. She performed at over 140 events in the Number 3 slot during the 2006-2007 flying season.

 Display Status

This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Boeing Aviation Hangar
Object Details
Date 2006-2007 Country of Origin United States of America Type PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear Manufacturer Gentex Corporation
 Physical Description United States Air Force Thunderbirds plastic protective Type HGU-55/P flying helmet; molded stylized red flames on a white helmet with four blue star pattern in between flames; red plastic visor cover with smoke gray plastic lens; U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds insignia on back of helmet (royal blue phoenix with yellow beak and eye, red disk for a body with a white five point star, four royal blue upper profiles of F-16 formation on white star; visor; grey leather lens cover with red embroidered lettering and insignia; black velcro chin strap; internal David Clark headphones; microphone plug left. Dimensions 3-D: 25.4 x 24.1 x 30.5cm (10 x 9 1/2 x 12 in.)
 Materials Outer Shell: Fiberglass
Ear Padding: Leather
Lining: Styrofoam
 Inventory Number A20080402000 Credit Line Gift of Nicole Malachowski, USAF Thunderbird #3, 2006-2007 Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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