In WW2 Disney Made These Gas Masks for Children

During World War II, anticipating potential chemical attacks on American soil, the U.S. government collaborated with Walt Disney in 1942 to design a Mickey Mouse-themed gas mask to alleviate children’s fear of wearing such equipment.

Approximately 1,000 of these masks, featuring Mickey’s signature ears and facial features, were produced by the Sun Rubber Company. The intent was to encourage children to perceive wearing the mask as part of a game, thereby increasing their compliance and survival chances in the event of a chemical attack.

Fortunately, chemical warfare did not reach the United States, and the masks were never utilized. Today, these rare artifacts can be found in select museums, including the 45th Infantry Museum in Oklahoma City.