Named WWII Front Seam Fixed Bale M1 Combat Helmet

The M1 helmet is an example of one that was produced during the Second World War and which continued to be used into the 1950’s. The exterior of the helmet retains most all of the dark green paint, with the surfaces being fairly smooth, although showing more texture and visible cork at the base of the helmet exterior around the rim. The helmet shell shows a stress crack that is approximately 2 inches long on the left front of the helmet. The interior of the helmet shell bears the handwritten name and service number of the wearer, “A/3C William Brandt AF 23969176”. The notation indicates that the helmet was worn by an Airman 3rd Class of the United States Air Force, with the “AF” prefix having been introduced in the 1950’s for use by male enlisted personnel. The helmet has fixed bales and the web chin strap is in place across the rear of the helmet, with the finish being worn from the early stepped brass chin strap fastener. The helmet liner has vertical white marks on the front and on the rear. The interior of the liner shows wear and use.