3-D: 26.7 x 4.1 x 6.7cm (10 1/2 x 1 5/8 x 2 5/8 in.)
Type:
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear
Country of Origin:
Italy
Physical Description:
Regia Aeronautica flying goggles worn by Felice Figus; chrome steel frames with hinged nose bridge; smoked plexiglass lenses; leather chamois eye pads; soiled white elastic strap.
Summary:
This is an example of flying goggles issued to pilots and aircrews of the Regia Aeronautica during World War II.
These particular goggles were worn by 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.
Credit Line:
Gift of the Figus Family, in memory of Capt. Felice Figus
