Clothing: 76.2 x 58.4 x 8.9cm (30 x 23 x 3 1/2 in.)
Type:
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Flight Clothing
Country of Origin:
Italy
Physical Description:
Olive green linen Regia Aeronautica flying jacket worn by Felice Figus; zipper down front; elastic cuffs and waist band; brown fur collar; buff wool lining held in by loop cord; two front slash pockets; embroidered manufacturer's tag on inside collar; Flight Second Lieutenant rank insignia on left breast; epaulets with buttons; green sateen lining.
Summary:
This is an example of a flying jacket issued to pilots and air crews of the Regia Aeronautica during World War II.
This particular jacket was worn by 2nd Lt. Felice Figus of the 53rd Stormo. 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, a stage in Sardinia (Decimomannu) and in Caselle Torinese (Turin Region) in 1943. Following his service during World War II, he continued his flying career and became the chief pilot with the Italian flag carrier, Alitalia. While flying with Alitalia, Capt. Figus amassed over 28,000 flying hours.
Credit Line:
Gift of the Figus Family, in memory of Capt. Felice Figus