Thermostat question

I recently scavenged some new cooling system parts from a wrecking yard ,
for my 85 Honda Accord.
The Thermostat in question has brass clips built into it that holds it in
the full open position.
Is this some sort of safety that hold it open if the car overheats?.Or are
you supposed to bend them out of the way,before installing it?.
When i pulled it out of the car it was locked into the full open position.
Does anyone know anything about these?

Thanks,

Cj