Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The M1926 inflatable flotation belt was used as a life preserver by assault troops during amphibious actions and beach landings. The belt was inflated by squeezing two switches located inside the belt, which activated two CO2 bottles. If the CO2 bottles failed, the belt could still be inflated by blowing into the rubber tubes, which have valves on the ends.
This type of belt is particularly known for use during the D-Day landing on the Normandy beaches on June 6th, 1944.
The belt is dated and manufacturer marked in ink (partly faded):
OCT 20 1942
CONTRACT NO. W964-TS-90
THE FIRESTONE TIRE AND RUBBER CO.
AKRON OHIO
The metal buckle surrounding the CO2 containers shows a USN marking. The instructions are stamped on the canvas, close to the CO2 slots and indicate: "To inflate squeeze arrows together with a hard quick grip and release".
Condition is amazing for its age, likely one of the best we have offered. The rubber bladders inside the fabric are definitely compromised, as the rubber has deteriorated in places and is now quite brittle. The belt measures 60" long and 4.5" wide.
Offered in good condition, this is a solid used example of a hard to find Life Preserver, one made well before the D-Day invasion that made them so famous. Ready to display.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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