Flotation Belt worn by many of the soldiers who landed on Normandy Beach on D-Day. It was supposed to be worn under the armpits (not around the waist) and inflated by CO2 cylinders. The problem was that many soldiers wore it incorrectly and when inflated it would cause a soldier with a pack weighing 60-70 pounds to overturn in deeper water. Markings: TO INFLATE SQUEEZE ARROWS TOGETHER WITH A HARD QUICK GRIP AND RELEASE' is on end next to USN hook up; 'OCT 20 1944 18? CONT. NO. W25 030 tc 7 DURKEE-ATWOOD CO MPLS' is on opposite end. Main material is tan canvas, with rubber hoses and metal snaps and connectors/nozzles. The two smaller nozzles have a Star image 'Schrader' star image 'MADE IN U.S.A. 8665.' The two larger connectors/nozzles say' DURKEE ATWOOD.' Metal belt buckle.