This is an original official photograph from the 1920s, featuring a US Army Air Corps pilot in full dress uniform, complete with military wings, flight helmet, and a Sam Browne belt with sword hanger. Measuring 7cm x 17.5cm, this striking print captures the elegance and authority of an interwar military aviator. The pilot’s uniform includes the distinctive "pink" officer’s trousers, tailored tunic, and peaked cap, adorned with insignia denoting rank and achievement. The Sam Browne belt—a symbol of officer status—features a sword hanger, underscoring the blend of traditional military decorum with the modern role of an aviator.
 
The reverse of the photograph bears an original ink stamp:
OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPH (GROUND)
U.S. ARMY AIR CORPS
5TH PHOTO SECTION
SELFRIDGE FIELD, MICHIGAN
 
This stamp confirms the image’s provenance from Selfridge Field, a pivotal Air Corps base in Michigan, and identifies it as an official ground photograph taken by the 5th Photo Section. Such images were often used for records, publicity, or personal mementos, reflecting the Air Corps’ emphasis on discipline and presentation.
 
The 1920s marked an era when pilots were celebrated as both warriors and gentlemen, and this photograph embodies that duality. The flight helmet, paired with full dress attire, highlights the transition from ceremonial duty to aerial combat readiness. As an official print, this piece retains historical authenticity, with expected age-related characteristics such as minor edge wear or tonal shifts, but the image remains clear and impactful.
 
Key Details:
 
Subject: US Army Air Corps pilot in full dress uniform with Sam Browne belt and flight helmet (1920s)
 
Provenance: Official photograph by the 5th Photo Section, Selfridge Field, Michigan
 
Size: 7cm x 17.5cm
 
Stamp: Original ink stamp on reverse confirming authenticity and origin
 
Historical Context: Reflects the prestige and protocol of Air Corps officers in the interwar period
 
Condition: Period-appropriate aging; image remains clear with minor wear
 
Significance: Exemplifies the intersection of military tradition and aviation modernity
 
This photograph is a valuable find for collectors of military aviation history, uniform studies, or official memorabilia, offering a tangible connection to the discipline and pride of the early Air Corps. It serves as both a historical document and a tribute to the officers who shaped American air power.