"The Gibson Girl" Transmitter BC-778, part of SCR-578 This WWII era US made Radio Transmitter was added to rescue Dinghy's for helping to Locate downed air crews in the oceans. The Gibson Girl was the affectionate name given this equipment. Its narrow waist designed to help secure the Transmitter between the Legs of the Operator. The wide strap around his waist and attach the Hand Crank to generate Power and a Little Light would let you know you were up to speed and ready to transmit. Like a lot of things from the 1940’s it took a little more doing than things today. The Wire antenna was attached to a Box Kite and flown up 300 feet. Then use the Morse Code Key to Broadcast to the AM frequencies. Planes and Ships would be able to pick up the signal and alter their course to assist. There was also an automatic option to send out SOS every 20 seconds. This Gibson Girl is in fantastic shape, excellent for Collections or display. Hopefully you won’t need one, but like a lot of things from the 40’s it will still work. more info..... http://www.wftw.nl/gibsongirl.html