Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Belt |
Catalog Number |
1998.70.4 |
Maker |
Vanguard |
Date |
ca. 1975 |
Material(s) |
Wool/Brass/Cotton |
Dimensions |
H-1.5 W-40 inches |
Description |
This is a black wool United States Navy belt, which has a solid brass buckle with mirror finish and a brass tip. |
Notes |
Issued to Hardin County native Thomas Wesley Blair (1941-2013) during his naval career, 1961-1980. Thomas remembered wearning this enlisted naval winter dress uniform (1998.70.2-.5) for official winter occasions from 1972-1980. During his lengthy career, Blair served at naval stations across the United States, in Turkey, and Vietnam. He also worked aboard the USS Duval County (LST-758), USS Grant County (LST-1174), USS Rich (DD-820), and USS Shenandoah (AD-26). Blair received special commedation in 1967 for his role is extinguishing a fire aboard a small tanker docked in a river off Nhà Bè, Vietnam, saving thousands of gallons of fuel and protecting a vital channel to Saigon. During his service, Blair received the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, and numerous other decorations. He retired at the rank of Engineman 1st Class. |
Collection |
Thomas W. Blair Collection |
People |
Vanguard Blair, Thomas Wesley |
Subjects |
Belts (Clothing) Military Military uniforms Naval personnel |
Search Terms |
Navy Uniform U.S. Navy United States Navy US Navy |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |