To celebrate the 248th anniversary of the US Navy, the History of Diving Museum has put together the story of the now legendary Mark V diving helmet.
The unit has a rich history since it is over 100 years old. Key milestones in the Mark V helmet include:
- 1912 Gunner and diver Geroge D. Stillson is tasked with evaluating standardized diving procedures and equipment.
- 1916 After the publication of Stillson’s report, The Mark V compressed air helmet was put into production.
- 1939: The Mixed gas Mark V helmet is used for the first time on the Squalus rescue.
- The entire suit, including the Mark V, weighed nearly 200lbs/90kg.
- 1984: the last time the Mark V was used operation before being replaced.
The History of Diving Museum in Florida has a large number of Mark V helmets on display, as well as many of its antecedents, the Mark I through IV. The museum also features a vast range of diving memorabilia from navies and divers worldwide.
