WW2 British Army Life Belt

During World War II, the British Army issued a type of personal flotation device (PFD) known as the Life Belt. The Life Belt was designed to help soldiers who were crossing waterways or beaches during amphibious assaults or river crossings.

The Life Belt was made of rubberized canvas and featured a large, circular inflatable bladder that could be inflated by mouth or with a pump. The belt had two adjustable straps that could be fastened around the waist, and it could be worn over a soldier's uniform or equipment. The Life Belt was designed to keep a soldier afloat in the water, allowing them to swim or float until they could be rescued or reach the shore.

The Life Belt was used by the British Army during several amphibious assaults, including the D-Day landings in Normandy and the crossing of the Rhine in 1945.