USMC Items of Collector Interest

World War II Helmet with painted Insignia

The M-1 fixed bail helmet photographed here carries a rare example of painted insignia, normally associated with the previous war. The advent of WWII saw the reintroduction of unit insignia officially adopted by the Corps for many of the same reasons that they were used in WWI.

Prior to the issue of camouflage covers the exterior surface of the helmet was uncovered which in some cases, this being one example, led to the painting of insignia. The Paramarines, whose unit insignia this portrays, were a small specialized organization of eventual regimental strength and a part of the First Marine Amphibious Corps.

As the insignia was adopted and authorized for wear, (Smith & Pelz chronicled the origin of the design) the Marine to whom this helmet was issued, drew upon past practice and carefully reproduced the Paramarine insignia represented here. It is a good likeness and quite convincing in application. The leather aviator helmet depicted with it was standard issue to the Paramarines and worn under the steel helmet.