US Helmets and Body Armor 1917 – 2015
The use and implementation of helmets and body armor for American Forces was first utilized in the early 20th century. Helmets for the Americans began during World War 1 where the British Brodie helmet was adopted by the American Forces. The Americans coming over to fight the Central Powers in Europe also used the French Adrian helmet, but this was only specific to African American soldiers like the 369th Infantry Regiment (aka Harlem Hellfighters). Prior to WW1, American soldiers were only protected by a layer of thin cloth from their campaign hats.
Credit to : Chris Butler