Posted 13 years ago
stepback_a…
(363 items)
This is the standard issue jump helmet used by U.S. airborne troops in the jungles of Vietnam. This is an older style liner which snaps into the steel pot to prevent the helmet from being lost during a jump. What makes this helmet unique is the cover which came from a local veteran. He was a member of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, which was a unit of the 82nd Airborne Division. The emblem of the 505th is a winged black panther. When deployed to Vietnam in 1968, the flying panther emblem was drawn on many helmet covers such as this one. At the time, the vet had an artistic friend draw this for him on this cover.
you sure this isnt britt taylor collins work if not it will be his soon lol
vanskyock24, I was just waiting to see if his name would come up. Thanks.
I wondered same the minute I saw this wonderful Nam Hat Vansky and step-back :-)
Thanks for the great share you already know how I love my Nam guys :-)
Nice helmet.
I would think that there might have been some controversy over the insignia at this time. To your knowledge was the insignia endorsed by the chain of command/ worn by all members of the Rgt?
Scottvez, I don't know. My guess is that it was unofficial and not everyone had the insignia on their helmet.
It would be interesting to look into. I'd think the symbol would have been popular among African American troopers.
Scott