Reminders about the flak suit and flak helmet, from Bombardiers’ Information File, U.S. War Department, March 1945:
FLAK SUITS
Flak suits consist of armored vest and apron assemblies. They are not personal issue, but they should be delivered to the plane before the flight and picked up afterward for inspection. You couldn’t carry one anyway, with everything else you’re lugging. Report to the pilot if you don’t find a flak suit in the plane for you.
Wear the suit when you approach the target area. It’s heavy but it’s guaranteed that you won’t notice the weight when the fight begins to get hot.
Note: Ask your Personal Equipment Officer to have a tab sewed on your flak suit for your oxygen mask hose clip.
FLAK HELMETS
The flak helmet is personal issue. If you have worn both your flak suit and flak helmet on the mission, you have a good chance of returning the helmet to the supply room personally after the flight.
