The Iron Cross Second Class was awarded for a single act of bravery in the face of the enemy that were above and beyond the call of duty.
This particular Iron Cross was awarded to 2nd Lt. Felice Figus of the 53rd Stormo. He received his first pilot's license at Elmas airport in Sardinia (currently the largest airport in Sardinia). Lt. Figus was a front line fighter pilot and saw extensive service in the North African campaign, the fight for Malta, spent 6 months on the Eastern front, flew during the Sicily campaign, and in Caselle Torinese (Turin Region) in 1943. Following his service during World War II, he continued his flying career becoming an airline captain from 1947 to 1952 working for Linee Aeree Italiane (LAI). LAI was a joint venture between TWA and the newly formed Italian government in 1947. In 1952 Figus joined Alitalia and became the chief pilot with the Italian flag carrier. During his flying career, Capt. Figus amassed over 28,000 flying hours.
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
Germany
Type
AWARDS-Medals & Ribbons
Physical Description
Iron Cross Second Class; black cross with a silver border; Obverse: embossed swastika in center; Reverse: embossed date "1939"; red, white and black striped silk ribbon.
Dimensions
3-D (Cross): 4.6 x 0.5 x 6cm (1 13/16 x 3/16 x 2 3/8 in.)
3-D (Ribbon): 6.4 x 3.2 x 0.6cm (2 1/2 x 1 1/4 x 1/4 in.)
Materials
Steel
German Silver
Paint
Solder
Inventory Number
A20110384001
Credit Line
Gift of the Figus Family, in memory of Capt. Felice Figus
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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