Tanker Helmets worn by the USN 'Guinea Pigs'

[Salvage Sailor]

Yes, that's right, worn by the Navy during 'Guinea Pig' minesweeping operations in Japan, 1946-1947

 

Lt. Comdr. E. G. Rifenburgh, of New York, skipper of the Joseph Holt, stands beneath the eight-ball mine insignia on the ship’s funnel. The eight ball indicates the vessel is part of Mine Division 8 of the Navy’s mine force. The “coat of arms” is a guinea pig behind a mined eight ball

 

LOOKING FOR TROUBLE (Details on why they were wearing Tanker Helmets)

 Volunteer-Manned Ships of ‘Guinea Pig Squadron’ Ply Japanese Waters Seeking Deadly American Mines Menacing U. S. Vessels

 

THE CREW of the SS Joseph Holt stand in wheelhouse of their ship as they cruise Japanese bays and channels looking for “live” pressure mines hidden beneath the surface. The compartment is padded with mattresses and the men wear tank helmets to protect them from shock of possible explosions. (Associated Press wire photo.) Left to right, William H, Hill, S2/c., 26, of Brooklyn, N.Y.; Albin C. Scheppiner, QM2/c, 23, of Erie, PA., and Harvey L. Hunter, RM2/c, 21, of Vancouver, Wash.

(US Navy photo)