This is the Model 1917 steel helmet as worn by US forces in World War one. The exterior is painted a dark OD green with a hand painted 37th Division insignia on the front. The insignia consists of a solid red circle outlined in white. Most Division insignia found on World War One US helmets were painted after the Armistice.

The interior of the helmet has the complete liner and chinstrap and the original label remains in the crown. The japanned canvas liner is excellent as is the gray wool lining above it. The leather shows light wear and some dryness with light mildew spots.

Written on the underside edge of the helmet is “R. GALL.” The same name is written again on the section of the leather chinstrap that passes through the crown.

As stated above, the insignia on the front of the helmet is for the US Amy’s 37th Infantry Division which was made up of men from the Ohio National Guard. A search of records shows a Ralph W. E. Gall who served in Battery E, 136th Field Artillery. He served in the Muse-Argonne Offensive and in a defensive sector. He was with the AEF from 28 June 1918 to 24 March 1919 and was discharged April 10, 1919.

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