The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2277:
Description
This is a remarkable piece of aviation history: a genuine WWII-era Type B-5 Pneumatic Life Vest, manufactured by the United States Rubber Co. for the U.S. Army Air Forces. Dated July 31, 1945, this “Mae West” style preserver features the iconic yellow canvas construction, original stencil markings, and includes the rare attached “Life Jacket Shark Chaser” chemical packet—a survival tool famously developed with help from Julia Child during her time in the OSS. The vest retains its original adjustment straps and displays “U.S. Air Force” property stamps, likely from post-war transitional use during the Korean War era. The inflation trigger mechanism is a period-correct CO2 actuator often seen on F-86 Sabre pilot gear. The item shows authentic field wear including surface soiling, minor staining, and oxidation on metal components, though the fabric remains structurally sound with clear, legible labeling. H 24″, W 13″, D 2″
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