BACKGROUND: In late 1940, with the impending German entrance into the North African campaign, the army quickly developed and issued tropical uniforms and equipment in time for DAK, Deutsches Afrika Korps, (German Africa Corps), personnel’s arrival in Tripoli in February 1941. At the same time the Luftwaffe also developed and introduced their own version of the tropical uniform, headgear and equipment independently from the other branches of service. Originally Luftwaffe personnel stationed in North Africa were issued the first pattern, army style, pith helmet until they introduced their own version in mid-1941 which was almost identical to the army version except for the coloration and insignia. Generally the army issue pith helmets were in a olive/khaki shade while Luftwaffe pith helmets were issued in light tan, olive green or blue/grey, with the tan helmets being the most common. Wear of the pith helmets was extended to personnel serving in southern areas of continental Europe during the summer months, (May 1ST to September 30TH), but the helmets proved ineffective and unpopular and manufacture was discontinued sometime in 1942 or 1943. On introduction the tropical pith helmets were outfitted with the Luftwaffe style national eagle and the national tri-color identification insignia.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Silver washed, stamped alloy construction, second pattern, (Circa 1936/1937-1945), Luftwaffe eagle clutching a canted, swastika in one talon has a roughly, 68mm wingspan from wing tip to wing tip. All original attachment prongs complete.