US M3 FLAK Helmet

Name/Title

US M3 FLAK Helmet

Entry/Object ID

2017.1.21

Description

This M3 Flak helmet was the first helmet designed expressly for use by American bomber crews. This M3 Flak helmet was the first helmet designed expressly for use by American bomber crews. The M3 has large hinged ear covers on its sides to accommodate a communications headset; the covers were originally lined with felt, however the lining has since deteriorated on this example. Unlike M1 helmets, the M3 features a built-in suspension system, which is in excellent condition. The helmet's chinstrap is torn on one side. The exterior had a flocking coating to prevent the airman's skin from sticking to the metal at high altitudes and freezing temperatures. The helmet retains its original factory paint, but has lost most of its texture. From 1942 to 1944 only 210,000 of these helmets were produced by the McCord Radiator & Manufacturing Company.

Cataloged By

Chris Causley

Acquisition

Accession

2017.1

Source (if not Accessioned)

Chris Causley

Made/Created

Manufacturer

McCord Radiator and Manufacturing Company

Date made

circa 1943 - circa 1945

Time Period

World War Two

Place

* Untyped Place

Detroit, United States

State/Province

Michigan

Country

Wayne County

Location

Location

Tall Display Case

Helmet Display

Other

Main hall, center

Category

Exhibit

Condition

Overall Condition

Good