*German, WWII, Double Decal Hitler Youth Fire Police Helmet, Named H. Weigand, Size 58*
A scarce original WWII German double-decal Hitler Youth Fire Police helmet, finished in black paint with age-worn surface. The shell retains both decals: the Hitler Youth diamond with swastika to one side and the Party shield decal to the other. Fitted with its period eight-finger leather liner, size stamped 58, with drawstring intact. Inside the liner is a handwritten name “H. Weigand” together with the service number 153,” adding strong research potential.
A large leather visor/neck protector is attached, typical of fire police helmets adapted for service against falling debris, sparks, and heat. The helmet shows honest service wear but remains solid, complete, and untouched.
Historical Note:
The name “H. Weigand” inside this helmet may possibly refer to Hans-Joachim Weigand (1923–1943) of Kassel, the only “H. Weigand” recorded on Forces War Records. Born in 1923, he would have joined the Hitler Youth in his mid-teens and been of prime age for fire-police auxiliary duties during Kassel’s heavy bombing raids. Later conscripted into the Wehrmacht, he served as a Gefreiter with 2. Stammkompanie Grenadier Ersatz Bataillon 15 (mot.) and was killed in Kassel in October 1943 at the age of just 19.
From 1936, membership in the Hitler Youth (Hitlerjugend) was compulsory for boys aged 14 and above. Born in 1923, Hans-Joachim Weigand would have been 13 when the organisation became mandatory, making him the right age to be swept into its ranks as soon as the law took effect. By 15–16 he, like many of his peers, would have been mobilised into civil defence and fire-fighting duties, where youth detachments supported the Fire Police during air raids and were issued lightweight civic helmets such as this example. While direct attribution cannot be confirmed, the combination of name, location, age, and context makes this a compelling possibility worthy of further research.
*Condition*
The helmet retains much of its original black finish, though with flaking, scuffing, and surface oxidation consistent with wartime use and age. Both decals remain visible and legible, with edge wear and loss in places. The liner is complete, supple, clearly stamped “58” and marked with the name “H. Weigand 153.” Leather visor present, with creasing and surface wear. An honest and complete example with great character. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
