"W" stamped on my M16 helmet?

[Glenn Barbaritz]

hi Guys. I was wondering if someone out there knows the makers name that is stamped on my M16 helmet. it is located on the right inside brim (if your wearing it) along with the 2 digit size. I am big into makers marks and was hoping someone could tell me this one. also on my Prussian spiked helmet on the back left brim is ink stamped "J.R. 97." I was told long ago that this meant " upper Rhineland infantry division. is that correct? any information on these questions would be greatly appreciated. thank you, Glenn

[PaulChep]

The W maybe for Hermann Weissenburger & Co - Stuttgart-Cannstatt. The JR 97 maybe Infantry Regiment 97 based in Saarburg in 1914.

[GWA]

Glenn, a photograph of the Stahlhelm marking might help. The Pickelhaube marking, "J.R.97" is for the 97th Infantry Regiment.

The 97th was attached to the 42nd Division in 1914 and 1915. With the 31st Division, the 42nd formed the 21st Army Corps which was part of the 6th Army. They saw hard service in 1914 on the western front and were transferred to the east in January of 1915.

I believe that the 97th Regiment was garrisoned (from) in Lorrain and as such was less than stalwart.

[Glenn Barbaritz]

hey Guys. thanks for the info. most excellent... unfortunatly the "W" marking is not a great strike and although visable to the naked eye, my camera isnt so lucky. all I can say is that it is a capital "W". were there any other makers marks that used a "W"? Glenn

[atcase]

Hi Glen,

Paul has given you to my knowlege, the maker which is identified by the `W` marking as used on german helmets of this period.
Ashley

[Glenn Barbaritz]

good deal. thanks a bunch Guys. Glenn