Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Coat |
Common Name |
Coat, Pea |
Catalog Number |
1998.70.1 |
Date |
1944 |
Material(s) |
Polyester/Wool |
Dimensions |
H-33 W-16 inches |
Description |
This is a United States Navy pea coat made of dark blue wool. It has six large pewter navy insignia buttons, two black plastic buttons under the lapels, two front pockets, and is lined with polyester. There is insignia on the left shoulder of three gold chevrons under a gear and eagle (Engineman E-6 Petty Officer 1st Class). |
Notes |
The donor, Thomas W. Blair (1941-2013), shared this Navy pea coat was issued to his father, Wesley Blair (1917-1973) at Great Lakes, Illinois, on or about 1942. The coat was more than likely issued later as Wesley did not enlist until 1944. Born in Hardin County, Kentucky, Wesley lived there until he enlisted at Louisville. Wesley is listed as a Seaman 2nd Class on the muster rolls for the USS West Point (AP-23) in early 1944 as it sailed from Milne Bay, New Guinea. He is then listed on the muster roll for the YP-628 as a Motor Machinist's Mate 3rd Class from May 1945 through January 1946. The YP-628 was a fishing trawler converted to an ocean-going refrigerator ship for the United States Navy, used to distribute food supplies in the Pacific theater during World War II After his service, Wesley gave this coat to his son, Thomas (the donor) for him to wear during his own service from 1961-1980, achieving the rank of Engineman 1st Class. During his lengthy career, Thomas 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). Thomas received the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, and numerous other decorations. |
Collection |
Thomas W. Blair Collection |
Event |
Vietnam War |
People |
Blair, Thomas Wesley Blair, Wesley |
Subjects |
Military Military uniforms Naval personnel Ships Uniforms War |
Search Terms |
Navy Uniform U.S. Navy United States Navy US Navy Vietnam Vietnam War Vietnam War, 1961-1975 World War II World War Two World War, 1939-1945 |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |