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USAAF A-14 oxygen mask, c/w T-44, boxed

Code: O21321

By The Ohio Chemical Manufacturing. Co. Dated 3-44. Size small. The mask looks excellent and is lovely and flexible retaining good shape. The harness, both webbing and rubber parts, oxygen hose and end connector are also excellent. This mask is fitted with a rare T-44 microphone assembly.  This comprises a deep chocolate coloured loom (CO-287) with an American version of the standard RAF bell jackplug to one end and a Type T-44-A magnetic microphone and AAF JK-26 socket at the other.  The T-44 fits inside the nose section of the mask alleviating the need for a throatmicrophone. Used primarily in aircraft fitted with RAF radio equipment, this loom enabled AAF crews with the 8th and 9th AAF to plug their American made headgear into RAF aircraft.  The standard AAF helmet jackplug connecting to the JK-26 and the bellplug to the aircraft.  As per details on the box this mask has had the rare 8th Air Force modification that involved adding rubber 'washers' over the oxygen inlet ports inside the facepiece. In addition the inner edges of the mask  have been carefully lined with chamois to increase the wearer's comfort - an unusual modification.  The mask comes in the original cardboard carton dated Oct. '44 containing a spares envelope with general instructions and a sheet for use and repair of the 8th Modified A-14 Cemented In Anti-Freeze insert.  In addition there are a few spare press studs, webbing straps and a 'flat hook'.  A superb display piece that would be difficult to upgrade.  Stock code O21321.