Inspired by artwork printed on a 1943 Office of War Information poster, the message on these socks is not to spill military secrets when the enemy might be listening. “Silence means security,” is a sentiment that still holds true today and these knee highs are a great reminder to be careful with your words.

During World War I, many branches of the federal government used posters to urge Americans to support the war effort. In a time without radio, TV, or the Internet, posters were an inexpensive way to deliver powerful messages to millions of people. The government hired well-known artists to create designs that unified the American people. Posters continued to be published during World War II, and new posters are still in production. The National Archives holds close to 20,000 posters produced by military and civilian agencies.