Code: S27377
Flyer's body armour, Type A with a Type C apron. Manufactured in Britain by Wilkinson Sword. Devised by the 8th AAF Surgeon Colonel Malcolm Grow in conjuction with Wilkinson Sword, the anti-flak vest is comprised of three parts, front, rear and abdomen/groin. Each section is constructed using overlapping manganese steel squares sewn into pockets within a heavy brown canvas covering, backed with a soft brushed cotton for comfort. It was equipped with a quick-release system using cords and lift-the-dot fasteners that allowed the entire suit to fall away from the airman in case of emergency. Intended for use by gunners, navigators, bombardiers and radio operators, whose duties involved standing or moving around the aircraft. Flak suits were issued from a 'pool' prior to missions and returned at the end of the 'Op' for use by outgoing crews. They were developed as a direct result of injuries sustained by 8th AAF crews flying from England. Initially there was considerable resistance and objection to wearing them but it is estimated that they reduced flak and bullet fatalities by 50% and injuries by 70%. These early development suits were manufactured by Wilkinson Sword in the UK but production was slow and later models were manufactured in America. The RAF also used flak suits in limited numbers. This example shows light wear and use. It is undamaged but somewhat faded and the pale lining is a bit stained. There are also a few minor moth holes on the felt 'pull' strap as shown. A super display piece. Extremely heavy and may, in some circumstances, require postal costs over and above those quoted by the 'online calculator'. Stock code M27377.
