The United States produced a few variations of tropical helmets. These helmets were constructed of reinforced cardboard. These made them light weight. An oversized dome with two rows of vents helped keep the heat away from the head of the soldier.

The following is an analysis of one of those helmets. Detailed photographs and terminology are given to provide the enthusiast and collector with a better understanding of this fascinating aspect of militaria.

While the item discussed here may not be available for sale, you can see our inventory of Spanish helmets that are by going to our web store.

The hot weather conditions experienced in the tropics and the deserts required a higher level of ventilation. The tropical helmet has upper and lower rows of vent holes. This provided a good deal of ventilation. In addition, some models had ventilation through the topper. The markings seen here belong to a hat produced in 1948. Manufactured by the International hat company. This is an example of how an insignia can be affixed to the tropical helmet using the eyelet. In this case a US Marine Corps EGA emblem is in place. This is another example of how the hats were marked. This example dates in the early 1960's.

If you have an interest is seeing other American headgear, you can do so by going to our Spanish helmets identification guide. Where we cover Army, Navy, Air Force and other organizations from various time periods.

This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of MilitaryItems.com , a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.