This is the painted M1917 Helmet and gas mask of Sergeant George B. Lilly, Company C, 107th Infantry, 27th Division. Lilly enlisted in the New York National guard on May 7th, 1917, and was assigned to the 27th Division once the AEF was formed. He went overseas on May 10th, 1918, as a Corporal, being made a Sergeant on October 10th, 1918. He returned stateside on March 6th, 1919.
The M1917 helmet, which has a full liner and chinstrap, has been painted green for the Welcome Home Parade in 1919. This is a well known color for these helmets because of this fact. There is a dab of glue that keeps the liner in place. The 27th Division insignia is painted on the front as shown. The gas mask bag has a great 27th insignia painted with his name and serial number next to it. The mask itself is what we believe to be a MkIV army canister mask replaced in the mid-1920's.
Lilly was awarded the Silver Star for his action on October 18th, 1918. During the Battle of La Selle River, he voluntarily left shelter to bring a wounded comrade to a place of safety under heavy fire.
This is a gorgeous grouping to a silver star recipient New Yorker. Perfect for any NY or 27th Division AEF Collection.