Vest, Survival, Type C-1, USAAF, RELIANCE MFG. CO.

The C-1 was issued in one size but was adjustable through three ties at the back and was intended for being worn under the life vest, body armor, and the parachute harness, but over the uniform and A-2 leather jacket. This, however, proved to be too cumbersome for being worn in some theatres of operation when all the survival equipment was carried, so a modified musette bag attached to the parachute harness upon bailout was developed. After landing, the crew member could then remove and wear the vest.

Three types of C-1 vests are in circulation with the two earliest models having two front slant pockets secured by a large button. The latest model had straight pockets opening from the top and secured by snap catches.

All components are carried in the specifically labelled and numbered outside and inside pockets. A leather and canvas holster with one securing strap is located on the left side of the vest for a standard issue .45 caliber automatic pistol.

Contents are the C-1 vest varied on area of deployment, yet the following was a basic list of items carried: 

• Box of twenty .45 calibre shells (for pistol)
• Waterproof match case with compass
• Accessory kit containing fire starter tabs pocket knife, oiler, whistle, razor and razor blades
• First-aid kit
• Fishing and sewing kit
• Two-bladed 5-inch knife
• ESM-2 signalling mirror
• Emergency parachute ration
• Insect repellent (can)
• Sharpening stone
• Five-minute signalling flares
• Waterproof plastic pistol cover
• Type D-3 leather gloves and inserts
• Reversible yellow safety cloth hat
• Survival manual
• Mosquito head net
• Spit and gaff assembly
• Type H01 folding sun goggles
• Plastic three-pint water bladder
• Gauze bandage (shell dressing)
• Instruction/contents manual