Item Description
Original Items: Only One Set Available. An observation balloon is a type of balloon that is employed as an aerial platform for intelligence gathering and artillery spotting. Use of observation balloons began during the French Revolutionary Wars, reaching their zenith during World War I, and they continue in limited use today. Synonyms include espionage balloon, reconnaissance balloon, or surveillance balloon.
World War I was the high point for the military use of observation balloons, which were extensively deployed by both sides. Artillery had developed to the point where it was capable of engaging targets beyond the visual range of a ground-based observer. Positioning artillery observers on balloons, generally a few miles behind the front lines and at altitude, allowed them to see targets at greater range than they could on the ground. This allowed the artillery to take advantage of its increased range.
This uniform set belonged to 2nd Lieutenant A.T. Wineow, an Observation Balloon Pilot during late WWI. We have not been able to locate any service information for Wineow, making this a wonderful research opportunity!
This uniform set includes a lovely patched tunic with collar devices and a pair of trousers. The tunic bears the “A” patch and Red, Blue and White roundel in between the legs of the A. The First Army Air Service was an Air Service, United States Army unit that fought on the Western Front during World War I as part of the Air Service, First United States Army. The First Army Air Service was the largest and most diverse Air Service combat organization of the American Expeditionary Forces in France, and most American Air Service combat units were assigned to it when assigned to the front. The collar devices are the standard US and “Winged Prop” for the Air Service. The left breast features a ;lovely Balloon Pilot Badge. Originally known as the Aeronaut Badge, the Balloon Pilot Badge was created in 1918 and awarded to pilots of military observation balloons. The badge consisted of a balloon centered on a standard Pilot's Badge and was issued in two degrees. The senior degree of the Aeronaut Badge was denoted by a star centered above the winged balloon.
The condition of the uniform is fair to good. There is extensive mothing and rodent damage present on the bottom of the tunic, staining on the shoulders as well as small holes. These may seem significant but surprisingly enough it does not subtract from the beauty of the uniform. The included trousers are in lovely condition without any extensive damage present.
This is a lovely set of a nearly impossible to find Balloon Pilots uniform. Comes more than ready for further research and display.
Approximate Measurements
Collar to shoulder: 9”
Shoulder to sleeve: 25”
Shoulder to shoulder: 15.5”
Chest width: 18”
Waist width: 16.5”
Hip width: 19.5”
Front length: 31"
Pants
Waist:15.5
Inseam:23
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