This black leather pilot's license was issued to Henry A. Ilse during World War I. Aero Club of America licenses required a demonstration of flight proficiency, and some Americans seeking to participate in the conflict learned to fly before the United States officially entered the war in April 1917.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
United States of America
MEMORABILIA-World War I
Aero Club of America leather booklet with gold leaf text on cover. Inside is an aviator's certificate (no. 613 and signed 25 October 1916) opposite a photograph of the aviator, Henry A. Ilse. The leather exterior shows wear and tear but the gold leaf text is clearly readable. (See Marks for detailed inscription text.)
3-D: 10.5 x 7.6cm (4 1/8 x 3 in.)
Paper, plastic
A19500146000
Donated by Mrs. Mary E. "Mother" Tusch
National Air and Space Museum
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