Historical information
Owned by Sig. L. W. Hanger who enlisted in February 1942 at Caulfield and was discharged in December 1945. Last posting was with 5 Aust. Jungle Trunk Line Maintenance Section with rank of Lance Corporal.
Note: Although these helmets were designed for Motorcycle Despatch Riders, they were also widely used by the 1st Australian Parachute Battalion from 1943-1945 due to a lack of available British Steel Airborne Helmets.
Physical description
Despatch rider's helmet made of Duperite (similar to Bakelite) with leather wraparound side and back below helmet. Cloth webbing inside for firm fitting. (See photos for detail of leather wrap and internal webbing). Chinstrap buckle and tongue attached to leather wrap.
Inscriptions & markings
External front of helmet: ink-stamped Despatch Rider insignia
Name (Inside on webbing support): Sig. L.W. Hanger
Service Number (Inside on webbing support): VX74482
Manufacturer's Label (inside):
Duperite 1942
Made In Australia
THIS HELMET IS SUITABLE FOR
HEAD SIZES 6 3/4 TO 7
MODEL No. 2200/2
(See photos for more detail of Label)