Don Hoff's Naval Aviator's Gloves

Gift of Elsie Hoff, 2011.394.002

Aviation Radioman 3rd Class Don Hoff wore these gloves as he flew his first combat mission in an SBD Dauntless at the Battle of Midway on June 4, 1942. He and his pilot, James Dexter, scored a hit on the Japanese carrier Kaga in the morning, and then attacked the carrier Hiryu that afternoon. Dexter received a Navy Cross for his actions at Midway, and Hoff received a Distinguished Flying Cross.