Joseph Meehan wrote:
Duct tape is worthless in area where there will be heat. It
is not designed for long term use of any kind. It was originally
designed for securing coverings over equipment while it was shipped
in WWII.

You've got the time period right, but the usage wrong. The Johnson and
Johnson Permacel Division made it for the U.S. Military during World War
II, but the original use was to keep the moisture out of the ammunition
cases. Because it was waterproof, soldiers referred to the tape as "Duck
Tape."