This was because Walter Kidde & Company had to adapt their products that were meant for peacetime to those to be used during wartime. After Walter Kidde's death in 1943 the company was passed down to his son John Kidde.
Walter Kidde & Company had to modify their products intended for peacetime use to those suitable for wartime needs. Following Walter Kidde's passing in 1943, the company was inherited by his son John Kidde.