French Adrian Helmet from World War II, African Troops

Adrian helmet model 1926 used by African troops: Chasseurs d’Afrique, Spahis, Zouaves and Tirailleurs.

This steel helmet is painted khaki, featuring the 1915 model emblem on the front with a raised crescent symbol.

It has its black leather liner with six ” teeth” sections, equipped with its eight stainless steel clips, and a chinstrap attached by tubular rivet.

It’s a very well-preserved helmet, typical of the 1939-1945 period.

The French Army of Africa played a central role in France’s contribution to World War II. The main units mobilized for combat included the Tirailleurs Sénégalais, Goumiers Marocains, Zouaves, and Spahis.

Zouaves and Spahis: These units were primarily composed of North African and French soldiers. The Zouaves served as infantry, while the Spahis were a cavalry force.

Tirailleurs Sénégalais: The term “Sénégalais” was a general designation that actually referred to soldiers recruited from several colonies in West Africa and French Equatorial Africa (including Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Niger, Chad, and others). These soldiers were a key component of the French colonial army and participated in numerous battles in Europe and Africa.

Goumiers Marocains: These soldiers, recruited from the Moroccan mountains, were organized into specialized units known as “goums.” They were particularly effective in rough terrain operations, such as those in Italy.