Article about: Good day all, I have recently been given the MkII helmet which belonged to my Uncle’s father, Ronald Hurd, who served as Engine Room Artificer in the Royal Navy from 1915 to the 1950s. Joini
Good day all,
I have recently been given the MkII helmet which belonged to my Uncle’s father, Ronald Hurd, who served as Engine Room Artificer in the Royal Navy from 1915 to the 1950s. Joining as Boy and becoming an active Rating in 1917, by 1939 he was CPO (CERA), receiving his commission in 1943. Engaged in Convoy Escort duties around Africa, his then current ship HMS Challenger (a pre-war survey vessel), was responsible for the rescue of some 600 survivors of the Troopship Anselm, when she was torpedoed in 1941.
The helmet shell, liner and chinstrap are all dated 1940 (unfortunately difficult to photograph on the latter, but clearer to the eye). The Gas Curtain No.1 is remarkably supple, though I have no intention of unraveling it as I have no wish to destroy its originality (it shall remain exactly as he left it). I understand these curtains were used by naval personnel as improvised Sou’Westers when the helmet was required.
I shall let the pictures do the talking, but as you will see, this wonderful item has instantly become one of the most outstanding and valued items in my collection, not least because of the family connection.
A very nice helmet, and thanks for showing. The family history does indeed make it special, so make sure you record the history on paper for the benefit of future generations to understand.
Many thanks for all your kind words Gentlemen.
I shall, indeed, get all the history I can find down on paper, Steve. I have CPO Hurd’s Service Papers from 1915 to 1943 and am gradually working through the list of ships and dates... and trying to decipher some of the handwriting!
I will have to apply for a copy of his records beyond 1943.
By the way; I know the No.1 Gas Curtain was replaced by the No.2 around August 1940, but cannot find an introduction date for the No.1... Any ideas?
Many thanks!
Bob
Royal Navy MkII with a difference...
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its just an opinion.
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