Canadian Helmets
The Mk.II helmet was the standard Canadian Infantry helmet, as used throughout World War II being a modification of the Mk.I helmet what was introduced in April 1916 and used during the First World War. Production of the Mk.II began in 1938 and the first units were delivered to the armed forces in 1939. The Helmet retained its predecessor's shape but improved the stell, liner and chin strap.
Mk.II Helmet with decal of the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals. The helmet is dated 1941.
Mk.II Helmet with a two colored camouflage netting, green and brown.
The Mk.III helmet was designed due to the lack of protection from horizontal projectiles offered by the Mk.II helmet. Experimentation was done with reshaping the Mk.II to offer better protection for the temple and back neck areas and while the shape was deemed good the steel was weakened. The new pattern that resulted could be shaped out of the same size plate of manganese steel used in the Mk.II. Production began in 1943 using the existing Mk.II liner and was issued on a replacement basis, the exception being the 21st Army Group who were completely equipped for the Normandy Invasion.
First the British and Canadian 3rd Infantry Divisions leading assault troops only were issued with the MkIII for D-Day and afterwards the numbers grew, many other troops used the Mk.III as well after D-day.
Mk.III Helmet with decal of the North Nova Scotia Highlanders, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division.
Mk.III helmet with decal of the North Shore Regiment, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. This helmet was left after the fights around the city Zutphen, Holland 1945.
Armoured Helmet Mk.II for armoured vehicle crew. Like: Tanks, Universal Carrier, Scout Cars....
The number 51 on the maroon background on the front of the helmet was the vehicle number of the Lord Strathcona's Horse, 5th Canadian Armoured Division.
The number 51 on the maroon background on the front of the helmet was the vehicle number of the Lord Strathcona's Horse, 5th Canadian Armoured Division.
Dispatch riders helmet. This is a Canadian made dispatch riders helmet, dated 1944 size 7 1/4.