Rare and historically significant  U.S. Navy  life vest, hand-marked “BEACH MASTER” and featuring a large, original sewn-on U.S. flag on the back — used during amphibious landings.
🪖 Details:
•Original U.S. Navy life vest 
•Clearly marked “BEACH MASTER 1” in period white paint
•Large hand-sewn U.S. flag on the back for identification during beach landings
•Retains all original leather front straps and buckles
•Stenciled USN contract markings faintly visible on side panel
•Mounted here on a USN-style HBT uniform for display (not included)
📚 Historical background:
Beach Masters were responsible for coordinating troop and equipment movements during chaotic beach landings. They had to be highly visible and easily identified by landing craft crews — hence the use of large flags and painted text on their equipment.
These vests were used by Shore Party units, Navy Combat Demolition Units (NCDU), and U.S. Naval Beach Battalions, especially on D-Day in Normandy.
✅ Authentic piece – not a reproduction
Excellent condition with honest wear. Perfect centerpiece for any D-Day, Normandy, or US Navy amphibious collection.