When Jack O'Neill began surfing in 1952, there was a definite lack of functional apparel. Working for the Army Air Corps led to the discovery of neoprene foam in a DC-3 plane. By using this neoprene carpeting and duct tape, he was able to cast aside his bun-huggers and bathing cap in favor of a much more practical design. Demand for O'Neill's neoprene suits quickly grew, and he began selling his products out of a garage. By 1980 he had a thriving business, leading the beach apparel industry. Despite this sudden growth, O'Neill always remembered his roots and developed the O'Neill Sea Odyssey Program – a free, educational cruise that acquaints kids with the microbiology of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, beginning at Jack O'Neill's doorstep.