WW2 US M1 Helmet of The Free French Army - N.W .Europe

Found in the Alsace region during renovation works in 1986 this US M1 helmet has insignia painted to both sides denoting use by Free French forces . The Free French were the first into Paris & played a very large part in the liberation of France as a whole.
Helmet has had the 1804 'tricolor' revolutionary flag painted to both sides with this showing commensurate wear to that of the rest of the helmet . Its original cork mixed OG factory paint is well worn with chips & scuffs evidencing that this is a helmet that has seen much action. Its general manufacture is of early format with front seam fixed bales & a large 'S' for the manufacturer 'Schlueter' who began production in 1943 . Chinstrap buckle is of the early brass raised bar this being the first variant as found on its M17A1 predecessor. Liner is a 'Firestone' produced example & has twin matching French insignia to each side. All 'A' washers are of the September 1942 version in unpainted zinc coated steel. Nape strap still present & marked to 'Gem Dandy Inc' with wartime contract number. 'JM' marked to webbing with this tied at rear according to the preference of the soldier. Slight stress crack to rear of liner as is commonly seen.
A rare piece of history to the Free French who played a very large part in the liberation of France from the grasp of German forces. .

Code: 13678