The American pressed fiber sun helmet has been the canvas for many would-be artists over the years. Often times these helmets featured colorful characters and served to keep track of a soldier’s travels. Recently this reporter came across another nicely painted example (as seen above).
It is truly unique in that it features a variety of post-World War II shoulder insignia including divisional and army patches. The artwork done is truly impressive. It isn’t known if the original owner actually traveled to the various bases denoted on the helmet, but this one likely did get around a bit.
Given that it says “Korea” on the front suggested it dates to the Korean War era, but it could have been issued later to a soldier who served in Korea in the late 1950s or 1960s.
Real talent is apparent in how the patches are almost perfectly painted. The helmet shows only little wear so it was likely painted and not worn. It has been carefully stored over the years, and was offered for sale at the 2015 MAX (Military Antiques Extravaganza) Show, where I obtained it.
Now that it is in my collection it will continue to be preserved and enjoyed as the art it is!
