With previous body armor lacking flexibility, and with a wartime shortage of metallic armor, the Marine Corps began developing a new generation of protective gear.

Doron, a nonmetallic material made of fiberglass and plastic, was used to create an advanced vest with curved plates conforming to the body. After a series of rigorous tests, 2,500 new vests were sent to the frontline units of the 1st Marine Division in Korea in 1952.

Improvements to body armor illustrate The Marine Corps’ commitment to meet the changing needs of Marines.