Brit Mediterranean Camo helmet with a Canadian twist

[Mark K]

This camo painted Mk II is rather an interesting helmet there is a lot going on with it the shell is British manufactured but would appear to have a smooth finish so IMO not a standard army issued Mk II and was very likely issued to one of the other services as I do believe at this point in the war they should be sporting a textured finish.

This Mk II was produced by (EC&CO Ltd) E Carmeliant & Co Ltd Birmingham and is 1940 dated now here is were things get rather interesting it is sporting a 1942 dated VMC liner and a Canadian war time period chinstrap, the helmets crucifix pad has been lost to the ages and would appear to have been gone for many years and liner and chinstrap look to have been in this helmet for eons and the liner retention nut and bolt are quite seized .

There is good period evidence in the form of images to support this type of camo pattern was worn in the theatre of operations in Italy and or South western Europe. and IMO the camo looks good and shows some nice aging and patina and shows definite signs of field use just how I like them used and not abused.

If the original occupant was with 1st Canadian Division he would very likely have received a British made helmet, as they went overseas before Canadian production began, I am positive this helmet has a story to tell and would love to know how and were this helmet came to be in this configuration was it traded ,lost in a crap-game, gifted from soldier to soldier ,field pickup who can say all speculation of course but an interesting exercise for the mind.

 

Regards Mark