Description

This is an early WW2 M1 Helmet. Probably McCord. This helmet comes with a netting made from US Army Vehicle Camo netting. This was a common practice by GIs during WW2. It resulted in a larger holes vs. the standard issue small squares or even smaller “shrimp net”. This has a liner with three decals. One looks like a sgt. or corporal chevron on the front which has largely worn off. The others are a 3rd Army decal and a “gold wing” that I have not identified. (Airborne?) The liner also has a crudely painted soldier’s name and serial number.. painted in white. The name appears to be Williard Gentry. General Patton commanded the 3rd Army during its march through Italy, France and on into Germany.

This M1 retains the original fixed bales and has the seam in the front. The helmet has the original cork finish still visible, especially on the lower 2/3rds where there is less wear. There is a small dent in the top. The helmet appears to have been partially or completely repainted. It is in the correct dark green for WW2 period helmets. I can not make out the “production number or code” on the inside of the helmet as it has been painted over. The liner also has some of the green paint on it. The liner has the early, khaki colored webbing. I cannot see a makers mark on the liner.

This set, helmet, liner and net are exactly as I found them at the Stormville, NY antique fair back in 1989. The dealer said she bought it at a yard sale. You don’t see WW2 stuff turning up like that too often these days. Great piece with some research to be done.