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During Operation Market Garden, the US Army 101st Airborne Division, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion (Easy Company) wore the iconic M1 helmet, adapted to the needs of paratroopers. Here is a detailed overview:

M1 Helmet of the US Paratroopers

Base model:

The M1 helmet was the standard helmet of the US Army during World War II.
Made of steel, with a loose inner helmet (liner) of compressed fibers for added protection and comfort.
Specific modifications for paratroopers:

Chinstraps: The helmet was equipped with fixed A-hinges and a spring steel buckle. These straps were sturdier than those of standard M1 helmets to prevent the helmet from falling off during parachute jumps.
Netting: A helmet net was often stretched over the helmet to make it less reflective and to improve camouflage.
Extra protection: Some paratroopers added pieces of rubber or padding for comfort during the hard impact of a landing.

1. Markings:

   • Helmets of the 101st Airborne Division often featured tactical markings:
     "Ace of Spades" symbol: Yellow markings on the sides of the helmet indicated the regimental unit.
     A vertical white stripe on the back of the helmet was reserved for officers.
     Some soldiers personalized their helmets with insignia, names, or unit colors.

Use during Operation Market Garden

• Easy Company jumped near Eindhoven and surrounding areas on Sept. 17, 1944, one of the first actions of the operation.
  The helmet was crucial to protect heads during both the parachute jumps and the ground combat that followed in Holland.
  Many soldiers wrapped personal items or extra camouflage in their nets, such as straw or leaves from the field.

Deze heThis helmet has been carefully assembled with original parts and shells sourced from WW2.

Production by Helmet Components Daniel Steel