The Named U.S. Navy Aviator Cap of Vice Admiral George R. Henderson

The khaki cotton baseball style cap shows some spots and use, but without holes or damage. The front bears the pin back insignia of a U.S. Navy officer. The interior leather sweatband is intact and it bears the name 'Henderson'. The cap was owned and worn by U.S. Navy Vice Admiral George R. Henderson, who served in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, and who rose from the rank of Seaman to Admiral. He held significant commands in Navy aviation during World War II. In July of 1944 Henderson was promoted to Rear Admiral and took command of Carrier Division 28 with his flag on the escort carrierSaginaw Bay(CVE-82). Here he directed his ships and squadrons in vigorous aerial offensives against heavily defended enemy bases. Between September 1944 and early 1945 he successively participated in the Invasion of Palau, Battle of Leyte Gulf, and the Invasion of Lingayen Gulf, planning and executing full air coverage of approaching and retiring convoys under extremely hazardous conditions, despite repeated attacks by hostile aircraft. In February of 1945 he took command of Carrier Division 25 with his flag onSaginaw Bayfor the Invasion of Iwo Jima. In late March 1945 he moved his flag to the escort carrierMakin Island(CVE-93) for the Invasion of Okinawa.As the war was winding down in August 1945 Henderson was serving ashore again as Commander Fleet Air, Quonset Point, Rhode Island. Henderson transferred to the Retired List of the Navy on August 1, 1954, as a rear admiral, designator 1313. He was advanced to rank of vice admiral on the basis of combat awards, after 37 years of naval service in 3 wars. Among his awards were the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit (6) with combat V's, the Purple Heart, and Presidential Unit Citation. He died on November 29, 1964, at the age of 71.