WW2 US USN Navy Mae West

“WW2 US USN Navy Mae West” refers to the life-preserving flotation devices used by the United States Navy during the Second World War. Named after the curvaceous film star Mae West, whose silhouette it supposedly resembled, this inflating device was an indispensable item for navy personnel. It was designed to provide buoyancy and keep the wearer afloat in open water, significantly increasing survival chances following a plane crash or ship sinking. The Mae West vest was constructed with durable, waterproof material, often bright yellow or orange for high visibility. It contained pockets for CO2 cartridges to inflate the vest when needed. This piece of equipment is a significant part of naval history, underlining the practical measures taken to ensure the safety of military personnel during one of the most destructive wars in history. It remains a symbol of the bravery and resilience of those who served in the US Navy during World War II.