MovieChat Forums > The Caine Mutiny (1954) Discussion > White gunk

White gunk

posted 15 years ago by straw-dale
5 replies | jump to latest

Anyone know why the men appled that white gunk to their faces during the battles at sea?

It's a question that's been bugging me for a long time.

[–] Stevicus-2 15 years ago

In the movie, it was referred to as "anti-flash creme," but I'm not sure what it was made of.

[–] TorontoJediMaster 15 years ago

It was made from zinc and it was supposed to protect their faces from flash burns from the guns, as well as provide added protection to their skin from any explosions.

It was supposed to be applied to their faces and, if they weren't wearing gloves, their hands.

[–] straw-dale 15 years ago

Thanks for the quick responses!

[–] rwsmith29456 14 years ago

Probably aluminum oxide just like the stuff you put on your nose to prevent sunburn.

[–] fnj2002 12 years ago

It is zinc oxide in a cream carrier, just like the suntan protection people smear on their noses. It is effective in minimizing burns from the instantaneous burning flash of an explosion.