This is an example of a standard issue flight suit for the United States Navy and Marine Corps during World War II and the immediate post war period. This suit was worn by Lt. Col. Marion Carl. Hel 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 flight 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-Flight Clothing
Manufacturer
Berk-Ray Corp.
Physical Description
Khaki cotton United States Marine/Navy one-piece summer flying suit; zipper down front; flap pocket with snap on each leg; zipper pockets on waist; attached belt; leather tag on left breast indicating name, rank and branch (see Marks for full text); zippers on each leg cuff; snap on leg cuffs; inside black tag with gold lettering.
Dimensions
Clothing: 165.1 x 69.9 x 2.5cm (65 x 27 1/2 x 1 in.)
Clothing Size: 42L
Materials
Overall: Cotton
Zipper: Nickel Silver
Buckle and Snaps: steel, leather, brass
Inventory Number
A19490034000
Credit Line
Transferred from the United States Navy, Bureau of Aeronautics
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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