USMC "The Basic School" M1 Helmet Liner – Quantico – Officer Training

Rare US Marine Corps reversible camouflage shelter half (Mitchell / Leaf & Cloud pattern). Dated March 1953. Made by Stein Bro. Mfg. Co. Excellent color retention, minor pinholes.

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

A pristine, unissued US Government Issue (GI) Green Beret from the height of the Vietnam War. Markings inside confirm the contract DSA100-68-C-0965, dating it specifically to 1968. Sourced directly from the estate of Special Forces trooper Norton, making this a piece with solid provenance. Unlike many surviving examples, the wool is free of moth damage and the interior silver stamping is crisp and bright. Features correct black eyelets with screens. Size 7 1/8.

Pair of vintage US Army rank insignia. First Sergeant (E-8). Subdued (Black on OD Green). Desirable "Cut Edge" construction typical of the Vietnam War era.

The essential reference guide for collectors of Vietnam War memorabilia, focusing specifically on the opposing forces. "Weapons and Field Gear of the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong" by Edward J. Emering is a high-quality hardcover book published by Schiffer Military History. It provides an in-depth look at the uniforms, equipment, and weapons used by Communist forces, making it a vital tool for authentication.

The original multi-purpose net. The multi-purpose net is made of olive green nylon, weighs 1 pound and measures approximately 5 feet by 9 feet (60 by 108 inches). Two 14-foot cords were attached to each net to serve as suspension ropes when the net was used as a hammock.

FSN 8465-889-3771 Specification MIL-N-43181

Authentic 1967 US pilot's survival life raft. Type LRU-3/P by Rubber Fabricators Inc. Holds air. Includes original Sea Anchor. Sold as a collector's display item only.

Authentic 1943 dated M4 optical sight for US 60mm and 81mm mortars. Manufactured by Minneapolis Honeywell. Includes the original M61 hard case.

Genuine US M7 Bayonet manufactured by Conetta in unissued/mint condition. Paired with a used vintage M8A1 scabbard by PWH. Authentic Vietnam War era set.

Genuine US Military fragmentation protective groin armor ("The Diaper"). Vietnam War era contract DSA-100-4677. Size 36 (Army) / 44 (Navy). Functional zipper. Used vintage condition. Collectible only.

Genuine US Army service tape. Classic Black background with Gold lettering. Woven construction (not embroidered). Standard issue for OG-107 utilities in the 1950s and early 1960s. Used condition.

Genuine Vietnam War era Red Cross identification flag. Contract dated 1968. "Flag, Ident, Red Cross, Amb & Marker". Nylon/Wool blend. Museum quality: Sealed in original bag with original cardboard box..