The following comments are taken from personal interviews with World War II German veterans who served honorably in various branches of the German Armed Forces (Deutsche Wehrmacht) and Armed-SS (Waffen-SS) from approximately 1939 to 1945.  Most served on both the Eastern and Western Fronts and ended their service time in captivity with various Allied countries in many different locations. 

In some cases the names of certain veterans have been omitted to protect them from unsolicited comments regarding their service time in the infamous ranks of the Third Reich.  One must bear in mind that as young men these veterans were sent off to war to serve their country.  Like most servicemen, they were drafted and simply went into service to fulfill their duties.  The period between 1939 and 1945 was a high time for nationalism in many countries, not just Germany.

Their comments have been condensed to provide the most important elements of their recollections regarding the helmets they wore during their service time.  These interviews took place in person, or were completed by surveys along with the use of a translator.  When possible, the interviews took place in Germany.