Jump Helmet from Salerno

[John Hodgin]

Here is a significant piece of history which a friend recently acquired.

In 1948 the helmet was recovered from a farmer's barn near Salerno. The farmer had originally removed the helmet from the Jäger's grave marker and placed it in his barn. The Jäger was buried on the farmer's land beside one of his fields.

A poignant reminder of the battles for Sicily and southern Italy during late summer of 1943.

[John Hodgin]

Rear angle.

Is very good that my friend allowed me to share this helmet here.

[Marco]

Amazing John....this helmet "Talk" about Italian Front!

[SMP]

Very moving, John. It's hard to say "great helmet" when the sad story of it's history is known. Did the FJ's indentity survive with the helmet ?

[Mike Davis]

[John Hodgin]

Thanks Marco and Steve. Regrettably, do not think any name survives. Will ask my friend so study the liner for any signs of a name one more time.

Very sad indeed, and also sadly, not uncommon regarding relics from battles.

[Daniele C]

great example of italian camo helmet!!

[Perry Floyd]

[floriskok]

This helmet gives me the goose bumbs Do you know the name of the Fallschirmjäger?

[Larry F.]

Outstanding yet very sad.

[M35]

M38 camo

Beautiful example John. Evidently the farmer took the helmet not long after the burial, as it does not look badly weathered? Is it possible to see a picture of the inside? Thanks for sharing!

Cheers,
Terry

[Homer Hodge]

John, thanks for posting this helmet with some actual combat history in Italy. Sadly, so often such helmets are from troopers killed in action.

Homer

[helmhunter]

A top shelf M38 in every aspects.

Greetings,

Phil.

[PANZERPIONIERE]

What a prize to own!
Steve

[Bob Lyons]

Hi John

I was fortunate enough to be able to view this helmet about three years back, it was great to see it in the flesh. It sure is in good hands now !
The slightly shortened smock that he got with it is darned nice too !

Sorry I haven't been in too much contact lately mate, this thing called 'work' keeps interupting my leisure time

Best wishes

Bob