Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. Original Item: Only One Available. These are extremely rare, and this is the second example that we have had available! The "Kapok" life preserver vests were used by the Navy and Marine corps during WWII, and were in many ways easier to use than the "Mae West" type, as they did not require inflation and were easier to secure. This type of preserver was intended more for "General" use, and not just for pilots. The larger size would have made it cumbersome in the cockpit, but for ship-based servicemen, it was perfect.
The standard version was just a vest, however this example has the neck and head support, indicating it was for use by a landing craft driver, used to transport troops from transport ships to the beaches. These individuals needed the greater neck support so that their head was always up, even if the craft was to start swamping.
This example is in a fair service-used condition, and looks to have been left alone since the war, with heavy staining across along with some holes in the fabric in several places. It was manufactured in Greenfield, Ohio and was made Fire-Retardant. The design made these much more likely to be used post war, as there was no worry about CO2 canisters and other issues that the Pneumatic life preservers were prone to. It is the correct navy blue color, and all of the straps look to be intact, albeit very worn.
Ready to add to your collection and display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
