Painted Naval Fixed Bale M1 Helmet - Aviation Ordnance Man Third Class

[helmet2id]

Here is one that I have had for about 10 years, a painted front seam fixed bale M1, worn by a Naval Aviation Ordnance Man Third Class. The shell has the rank designation on both sides, "AOM 3/C" on the back, and a unit designation on the front - "91 V7", but I haven't been able to determine definitively what the "91" and the "V7" mean. I did a little internet research and from what I found the "V7" may have meant the Mate was assigned to a PBY or a Catalina crew, but "V7" may also have been associated with a Midshipman Officers Candidate. The liner is original to the piece, and has the unit designation on the front as well. The clothe chevron was with the piece when I bought it, and the seller told me that it was with the helmet when he acquired it, but I can't say it was actually the Mate's patch. I can't read the heat stamp on the front of the shell, but have included a picture for those of you with more knowledge about the US M1. The piece isn't named, but the liner has a number written on the webbing that looks like 11169417. I have never seen a similar piece, but I am very comfortable with it and certainly believe the markings to be completely period done. Hope you like it. Jim G.

[ruddersrangers44]

Beautiful set Jim,I luv it,simply has everything in an historical Helmet,awesome stuff and thanks for sharing yet another top quality piece from your never ending collection................

[SteveR]

The rate is Aviation Ordnance man. Good Navy helmets are hard to find. Aviation marked helmets are very rare.

[anton67]

I like it!
Great score