Pre-WW2 British Royal Air Force RAF Officers Busby Helmet of Squadron Leader POW
Straight from the estate of a well-known military antique collector which includes over 30 helmets and pickelhaubes from pre-WW1 and WW2 era that will be listed on my page in the near future (pictures available upon request). Anything mentioned herein is simply my uneducated opinion. The condition of this helmet is excellent, showing no signs of trauma or damage. The exterior leather is in great shape with no signs of crazing and minimal wear. The fur is still mostly intact but looks like some of it has fallen out over time which is to be expected from an item this age. The cloth liner shows light wear and some of the stitches have loosened, but it’s still in great condition. The leather chin strap shows some cracking from age but is still solid and fully intact. This particular helmet has quite the history behind it as it belonged to Royal Air Force Bristol fighter pilot squadron leader Alan Thomas Kingston Shipwright. A veteran of the Great War who was shot down behind enemy lines east of Ypres in August 1917, whilst serving with 19 squadron. Taken POW, Shipwright was a persistent escaper and one of the’Holzminden Tunnellers’ – taking part in the largest and most celebrated POW escape of the Great War, July 24/25 1918. His full history can be found by clicking on the following link. This does not appear to be a reproduction but its authenticity cannot be guaranteed. Stand seen in pictures not included.
