Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of a genuine WWII "High Pressure" helmet liner by Mine Safety Appliances (MSA). The liner was then reissued for post-war use during the Korean War. The liner is marked on the left side with the unit insignia of the U.S. Air Force Strategic Air Command. Helmet liners such as these were often worn during training as well as a “patrol” helmet, as the steel helmets were not required, and could be heavy and cumbersome at times.
The liner is painted white and is the correct “high pressure” WWII issue and stamped with an F logo over 34 for the FIRESTONE TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY Manufactured in Akron, Ohio this “high pressure” manufactured M-1 helmet liner is identified by an embossed “F” in the crown. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company started M-1 helmet liner delivery to the US Army in September 1942. They produced approximately 7,500,000 M-1 helmet liners and discontinued production around August 17 1945 when the war ended. The liner outer paint is nice, and does not appear to have been repainted aside from the blue already present.
This true US WWII M-1 helmet liner can be identified through the frontal eyelet hole. Other correct WWII features include OD Green #3 cotton herringbone twill (HBT) cloth suspension liner, with the webbing in poor shape. This HBT suspension is still held tightly within the M-1 helmet liner by rivets and a series of triangular "A" washers. There is no tie string on the top or a leather sweatband.
This liner would have been worn by a member of the Combat Defense Force which would have consisted of members of the Air Police assigned to the base. The Air Police evolved into what is now known as the United States Air Force Security Forces. The United States Air Force Security Forces (SF) are the ground combat force and military police service of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force. USAF Security Forces (SF) were formerly known as Military Police (MP), Air Police (AP), and Security Police (SP) at various points in its history. Due to its significant ground combat mission, Security Forces are often regarded as integral infantry within the Air Force and were formed on the premise of being the Air Force's "Marine Corps", in that they would provide security for the Air Force similar to how the Marines provide security for the Navy.
The liner is in good condition with most of its paint present and white lettering and strip on the reverse. Included with the helmet liner is a BERET, MANS, WOOL in “Air Force Blue” with an enameled Strategic Air Command insignia, both in wonderful condition.
This is a wonderful helmet liner set that comes ready for further research and display!
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