The M35 helmet evolved from the previous M19, M22 and M31 models, with which tank crews and armored vehicle crews were equipped after World War I. Thus, in 1935 and within the modernization project of the French army, the new Model 35 was approved for mechanized troops.

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Later, in 1937, the initial design of the helmet underwent some variations that improved its use: the beading around the entire perimeter of the helmet was completed, a small visor was made on the front of the helmet so that it had a more rigid structure and was covered Because of the leather front pad, this variant is often unofficially referred to as the M35/37.

 

During the war, and with the creation of the new  Liberation Army (French Armée de la Libération - AFL), the M35 model was adopted as a symbol of modernity and with which the initial design was modified so that it could be used for all types of weapons. The main modification consisted in the change of the chinstrap adopting the simpler model already used by theAdrianM26, for this it was necessary to rivet on the side springs that hold the trim the plates with the square rings that allowed the chinstrap to be attached, this new variation receives the unofficial name M35/40.

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The troops of the new army (AFL) dressed in British or American uniforms, but always wearing the M35 model helmet or theAdrianM26, in order to be able to differentiate themselves from the other allied armies, along with those who were fighting. These hulls were painted olive green like the specimen in the collection.

 

 

This combat helmet modernization project was interrupted with the signing of the armistice with Germany, but continued in thevichy francethat adopted the new model as a regulation for the creation of its army that could not be carried out, given that on 11/11/1942 the Germans occupied the "Zone of Free France orvichy".

 

 

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​​​https://www.cascoscoleccion.com/francia/fr35.html

​https://www.world-war-helmets.com/fiche/Casque-Francais-Mle-35

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The specimen in the collection is the M35/40 variant, and bears the infantry frontal insignia (M15 model), possibly worn by theAFL.

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