WW1 US AEF 80th Division Patch Painted Brodie Helmet 2

This historic artifact is a WW1 US AEF (American Expeditionary Forces) 80th Division helmet, also known as a Brodie Helmet. This particular model, “Helmet 2,” is distinguished by its visually striking hand-painted division patch, signifying its affiliation with the 80th Division – the “Blue Ridge” Division. The helmet itself is a testament to the innovative military design of the early 20th century, widely adopted by American, British, and other Allied forces during World War I. Made from steel, it provided soldiers with critical protection from shrapnel and other battlefield hazards. The 80th Division, primarily composed of draftees from the mid-Atlantic states, played a significant role in various key operations during the war, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Owning this helmet offers not just a piece of military equipment, but a tangible connection to the bravery and experiences of soldiers who served over a century ago.