Abstract: A tether adapted for use in a device for inflating and deflating an inflatable article. The device shown has a body affixed to a wall of the inflatable article at a hole therethrough, the device having a tubular insert or nipple sealed to the body and a closure element or plug functioning as a stopper for the nipple, the plug being completely removable from the nipple to deflate the article. The plug has threaded engagement with the nipple, and functions as an inflating check valve when the valve is opened by partially unscrewing the plug from the nipple. The inflation device incorporates a novel tether for the rotatable plug, the tether permitting free rotation of the plug with respect to the nipple, and the complete removal of the plug from the nipple while retaining it tethered, as during the deflation of the inflatable article.