Military Opal Dinnerware

The origins of opal Pyrex date from the early 1940s when Corning received contracts from the U.S. military to develop a replacement to china used in military mess halls. Corning scientists perfected a formula creating a white opal glass with extraordinary strength, durability, and thermal shock resistance.

A 1943 Corning advertisement in Time magazine states: 

“Months ago the armed services asked Corning to develop a glass out of which messware could be made on a fast production basis. Naturally the product had to be tough and strong because the average K.P. or galley detail isn’t noted for gentleness in dishwashing.

The result surprised everybody – even Corning. The dishes are smooth and nice looking. And surprisingly tough. In laboratory strength tests, for example, they are dropped 5 to 7 feet to prove their toughness.” 

Many early commercial dinnerware patterns were available for direct-order through contracts with the General Services Administration (GSA). A popular pattern for the Army was Emerald Band, referred to as Munsell Green on order forms. The U.S. Navy and Air Force preferred patterns in blue, such as Turquoise Bands and Bluegrass.

Often, military customers customized Corning’s standard commercial patterns by including their insignia on the crest of plates. Customized military patterns, such as those shown below, are a favorite for many collectors. PYREX Passion II: Vintage Opal Dinnerware, Beverage Items, and Storage Containers contains over 50 customized opal dinnerware patterns produced for restaurants, institutions, and the U.S. military.

Military Customized Dinnerware Patterns

U.S. Air Force Tenth Tactical Reconnaissance Wing

Air Force of Nicaragua

U.S. Naval Hospital, Long Beach, CA

U.S. Navy Submarine Warfare Division

Pacific Air Forces

Pacific Air Forces

Strategic Air Command

Strategic Air Command

U.S. Army Medical Department