Name/Title
Kapok life jacketEntry/Object ID
2024.1013.49Description
This Kapok life jacket is a WWII variant made in 1945. This variation is a revised design of the original featuring leg straps. Belt was sewn on backwards, since military equipment straps face outward, while this one faces inward. Jacket is significantly faded throughout, including the stenciling on the back, and patch on the interior.
Contains life jacket light. Gray cylindrical with yellow bulb and black switches with "USN" on the side along "BMG" for Bridgeport Metal Group. Light has mild tarnish and acute damage throughout.
Contains brown whistle fastened to Kapok life jacket. the right side when using is marked "U.S.N. 1945" with an aged string.Context
In 1915, the United States Navy began using a fiber called kapok, a soft, lightweight fiber from a tropical tree in their life jackets. These jackets were used throughout both World Wars.Collection
Donation (Stephen Nelson), Historical CollectionsLexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Secondary Object Term
Jacket, LifeNomenclature Primary Object Term
Preserver, LifeNomenclature Sub-Class
Water Transportation AccessoriesNomenclature Class
Water Transportation EquipmentNomenclature Category
Category 07: Distribution & Transportation Objects
