Dutch Civil Defense Helmet

The Dutch B.B. helmet from 1955, produced by Verblifa (Vereenigde Blikfabrieken), is a post-war version of the British MK II Brodie helmet. These helmets were specifically manufactured for the Bescherming Bevolking (B.B.), a civil defense organization responsible for protecting the civilian population during the Cold War in the event of (nuclear) disasters or the threat of war.

Features and Specifications

• Manufacturer: Made by the Vereenigde Blikfabrieken (Verblifa) in Amsterdam or Krommenie.
• Markings: Often marked with the stamp VB (Verblifa) and the year 1955 (sometimes 1956) in the rim of the helmet shell.
• Color: Usually finished in a characteristic grey color.
• Components:
  • Liner: Often an edible/removable liner with a rubber "donut" for shock absorption.
  • Chinstrap: Usually a canvas (webbing) chinstrap identical to those used on M53 combat helmets.
  • Neck Protection: Many examples, especially those for B.B. fire brigades, are equipped with a leather neck flap.
• Material: Made of steel.

Usage and Context

The helmet is a copy of the well-known British model from the Second World War. Although the Dutch armed forces briefly used British MK II helmets, the Verblifa variant was primarily deployed by the B.B. and, to a limited extent, by the Mobile Colonnes.