US MK1 Brodie 42nd "Rainbow" Infantry Division

[MAP]

This just came in the mail from Marty. A big thanks as he knows the 42nd is near and dear to me

A really nice clean and fully intact US British made MK1 Brodie with the 42nd Rainbow Division flash. Marked HS 402 for Hadfield Ltd of Sheffield.

I've been looking for a 42nd Rainbow Division flashed helmet for years as as some of you already know, my childhood home was built on top of the remains of Camp Mills NY, the original home of the 42nd division during WW1. My home was just a few paces from the monument to the 42nd as well.

The 42nd was made up of National Guard units from across the country (i.e. the Fighting 69th from NY, Alabama, Indiana, Ohio, Iowa, etc). The name "Rainbow Division" was coined by then Major Douglas MacArthur said the "division would stretch across the United States 'like a rainbow'". MacArthur became the Divisions Chief of Staff.

[MAP]

Some Rainbow Division photos

[Tank Destroyer]

I glad you are happy with the helmet. It was a hard one to let go of it but it has a good home.
Your pictures are always incredible. GO 165th!!!
You need a picture of the helmet and the monument together.
Marty

[MAP]

I glad you are happy with the helmet. It was a hard one to let go of it but it has a good home.
Your pictures are always incredible. GO 165th!!!
You need a picture of the helmet and the monument together.
Marty

I was actually planning on doing that this weekend. If the weather holds out as we should be getting the after effects of Hurricane Ian

Thanks again! I'm sure it was tough as it's a top shelf example but you got something nice coming in the mail to replace it

[AndyM35]

Great post and great helmet Michael! And that fighting knife is one seriously mean looking piece of kit!

[MAP]

Great post and great helmet Michael! And that fighting knife is one seriously mean looking piece of kit!

Thanks Andy. The trench knife is made by Au Lion. So almost certainly issued and used during WW1. Picked it up at a local show many many years ago.

[MAP]

You need a picture of the helmet and the monument together.

Here you go Marty. Miserably cold and wet day but was able to get these taken during a short break in the rain.

[RH1941]

Great helmet