Foreign Legion helmets 1944-1945

[keith A]

Has anyone seen photographs of the 13 DBLE during their final months campaigning in France/Italy? My interest is in the uniform being worn.

I know they received American uniforms before landing in France but did they discard their British helmets for American ones? I have seen a very dark/out of focus photograph of what is said to be the 3rd BLE 13DBLE in the Vosges. It definitely shows the British-pattern helmet!

I know the RMLE probably wore the American M1 (although again I haven't seen any photographs) but is it possible the 13 DBLE retained its individuality and kept the British pattern steel helmet?

[keith A]

Just another note. I have seen a photo of a war grave for a soldier of the DBLE in Italy. The helmet on the grave marker is British. I know it's possible that the helmet was a random one found when the grave was being dug but....

[keith A]

I think this link may prove my suggestion....both the drawing and the faded photgraph show the 3e BLE/13 DBLE in January 1945. Both show the Legionnaires wearing either British MkII or American M1917 helmets rather than American M1 or French Adrian.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/88215061@ ... 181636805/