Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of a genuine WWII "High Pressure" helmet liner by Westinghouse. The liner was then reissued to an officer for use post war, most likely during the Korean war.
The liner is marked on both sides with the unit insignia of the Korean War Era California National Guard Reserve - 1st Division, which existed 1951-1963. This unit was originally known as the California Defense and Security Corps - 1st Security Zone during 1950-1951. Additionally, the front of the helmet has a Captain's Rank insignia on the front. Helmet liners such as these were often worn during training, as the steel helmets were not required, an could be heavy and cumbersome at times.
The liner is correct "high pressure" WWII issue and stamped with a W under mold number 21, for manufacture by the the Westinghouse Electric Co of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. These "high pressure" manufactured M-1 helmet liner are identified by an embossed "W" in the crown (which is still Westinghouse's logo to this day). Westinghouse was the largest M-1 helmet liner producer and had two production divisions; Micarta and Bryant Electric. The Micarta Division produced about 13,000,000 M-1 helmet liners and the Bryant Electric Division about 10,000,000. Westinghouse Electric Company started M-1 helmet liner delivery in May 1942. Westinghouse did have a contract to produce airborne liners and converted an unknown amount to airborne configuration. Westinghouse discontinued production around August 17, 1945 when the war ended.
This true US WWII M-1 helmet liner be identified through the frontal eyelet hole, which has the rank insignia installed. Other correct WWII features include cotton OD Green #3 herringbone twill (HBT) cloth suspension liner, held within the M-1 helmet liner by rivets and a series of triangular "A" washers, and the three upper suspension bands are joined together with the correct OD green string. Unfortunately, the interior rigging has degraded extensively, most likely due to moisture exposure. Parts are missing completely, and what remains is in delicate condition.
An very nice genuine WWII issue helmet liner, reissued to an officer for the Korean war with great unit and rank markings. Ready to display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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