WW1 US AEF 33rd Infantry Division Engineers Patch Painted Brodie Helmet

This artifact is a remarkable piece of military history from World War I, specifically tied to the United States Army’s 33rd Infantry Division. The item in question is a Brodie helmet, which was standard-issue headgear for American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) soldiers. What sets this helmet apart is the distinctive hand-painted patch representing the Engineers of the 33rd Infantry Division. The 33rd Division, also known as the “Prairie” Division, was composed primarily of National Guard units from Illinois and played a crucial role in many key battles during the Great War. The engineers of this division were responsible for critical tasks such as constructing trenches, fortifications, and other essential infrastructure on the front lines. This helmet not only provides a glimpse into the practical gear used by these brave soldiers but also serves as a tribute to their invaluable contributions during the conflict. A true collector’s item, it encapsulates both the history and the heroism of its time.