Wolseley Helmet of Other Ranks

Although it was only widely issued to British Forces during the Second Boer War, the Wolseley Helmet was the standard tropical pith helmet dating from when the RAF was formed in 1918. It continued to be in use until 1945. The Wolseley Helmet was unpopular – it was heavy and made you sweat.

It was not uncommon for personnel returning from overseas postings to throw their Wolseleys into the sea the moment the troop ship had left port in Egypt.