Aviator Flight Helmet?

[Bill H.]

Found this yesterday and took some photos. I would be thankful for any information.

Bill

[72psb]

Very clean H-15. Appears to have had little use after issue. WW2 era.

[TheCrustyBosun]

AN-H-15 flying helmet with audio receivers. These were one of the helmets used by US Army Air Forces pilots in WWII. They were introduced later in the war. 

[majormadmax]

Nice find! 👍

[Bill H.]

Thanks!

Any idea how much later in the war?

What does the HLC stand for?

[TheCrustyBosun]

HLC is most likely the owner’s initials.  I’ll get back to you on the dates on its issue. I don’t have my resources handy. 

[TheCrustyBosun]

The AN-H-15 replaced the gabardine A-9 as the summer flying helmet. It was standardized on 23APR1943 (not really as late as I thought) and was intended for use by both the Army and the Navy. It was replaced by the A-10 in early 1945 which saw limited use. 

[Bill H.]

46 minutes ago, TheCrustyBosun said:

The AN-H-15 replaced the gabardine A-9 as the summer flying helmet. It was standardized on 23APR1943 (not really as late as I thought) and was intended for use by both the Army and the Navy. It was replaced by the A-10 in early 1945 which saw limited use. 

Interesting, my Dad and my Uncles served in WWII, in the Army and the Navy. Those initials don't match. I wonder where this came from. Hmm..

Thank you!