Draft:Pigeon vest
A pigeon vest is a bra-like garment designed to keep carrier pigeons safe during World War II.[1] They were also known as pigeon bras.[2] Pigeons had previously been used in World War I, and parachutes were designed specifically for them. However, the pigeon vest was a new technology developed for use in World War II.[3] In 1944, Maidenform was contracted to provide 28,500 pigeon vests to the United States Armed Forces. The fabric used in pigeon vests was tightly woven to prevent damage from their claws,[1] and only contained a pigeon's body, leaving their head and wings free.[2] The devices contained adjustable straps so the pigeons could be more easily carried by paratroopers.[1] Once they landed, the pigeon vest would be undone, and then the pigeon would fly to their homing base.[2] Pigeons were used for messages because they were less likely to be intercepted by enemy forces.[1] They had a 95% success rate.[2]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d Keating, Lindsay. "Pigeons in bras go to war". National Museum of American History. Retrieved 13 December 2024.
- ^ a b c d O'Conner, Maureen. "Back When Pigeons Wore Bras". The Cut. Retrieved 13 December 2024.
- ^ Sienra, Regina. "During World War II, Parachuting Pigeons Carried Messages to French Resistance". My Modern Met. Retrieved 13 December 2024.