US M1 Helmet in WWII Canadian infantry

[Mark W. Tonner]

Hi Guys;

I have seen pictures of the helmet in use with 1st Rocket Battery, R.C.A. and Queen's Own Rifles of Canada personnel while in North West Europe 1944-45. Some information I found concerning the use of the M1 by Canadian troops:

- in the fall of 1942 a few hundred were issued to Canadian troops in England for 'user trials'

- end of 1942, it was recommended for adoption by the Canadian forces, at which time Canada ordered a quarter million of them from the Americans

- early 1943, Canada changed it's mind and adopted the MkIII, but had to honour the American contract for at least 200,000 M1 helmets.

- it was decided that the MkII helmet would continue to be used in Europe, except for the 3rd Cdn Inf Div, who would be issued the new MkIII

- the M1 was to be issued to Canadian Army (Active) units in Pacific Command, due to pending joint operations in the Pacific Theatre alongside the Americans

- 13th Cdn Inf Bde Group issued with them for 'Kiska'

- 6th Cdn Inf Div, CAPF (Canadian Army Pacific Force) issued with them upon formation in 1945

Thats about all I have.

Cheers