"Eisenhower" Jacket

This is a cadet issue dress coat that the donor had made into an Eisenhower-style jacket. He began pilot training with the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1941 but returned to the United States and volunteered for glider pilot school. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant and earned the service pilot wings seen on the jacket before receiving glider pilot wings. He was assigned to the 49th Squadron, 313th Troop Carrier Group, and piloted a glider during the aerial invasion of Holland (Operation Market Garden). The orange lanyard was an award presented after World War II by the Netherlands government to the 9th Troop Carrier Command glider pilots for their role in that operation.

The uniform items were donated by Mr. Donald Collins.

Click here to return to the Uniforms Gallery.

Screening at Entrance
All visitors may be screened with a metal detector upon entry. In addition all bags are subject to search and may be placed through an X-Ray machine. Weapons are not permitted including pocket knives and firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons.
Prohibited Items
Prohibited Items:
- Firearms*
- Knives
- Box cutters
- Food and Soda Drinks
- Alcohol
- Coolers

* Firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons, are specifically prohibited in Federal facilities in accordance with 18 USC §930 (c)

Permitted Items:
- Water bottles (clear, sealed bottle, up to 20 oz.)
- Purses
- Camera bags
- Diaper bags
- Strollers
- Service animals

Please note the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is not responsible for items left in vehicles.
Click here for frequently asked questions regarding items permitted inside the museum.
Visitor Photography Notice
Notice: Visitors may be filmed, photographed or recorded by the U.S. Air Force for educational and promotional uses, including for posting on public websites and social media.
Individuals are permitted to take their own photographs or videos while touring the museum.