Flying helmet : Flying Officer J J Allen, 41 Squadron, RAF

Brown leather flying helmet fitted with chin strap and buckle. The leather earpieces secure flexible metal Gosport tubes which are wrapped in fabric. The lining of the helmet is in felt, styled to look like chamois with the maker's brand tag stitched at the back. The peak of the helmet is fastened by a metal button clasp and a further leather flap covers the neck at the back.

Associated with the service of 404842 Flying Officer John James Allen. Allen was born in Charters Towers, Queensland in 1919. Prior to his military service, Allen worked as a Jackeroo in Queensland. He joined the Militia in 1939 serving with 26 Battalion and enlisted with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in December of 1940. Allen attained the rank of Flying Officer in March 1942 while attached to No.41 Squadron Royal Air Force (RAF) who were flying the famous Supermarine Spitfire. Flying Officer Allen was killed in an aircraft accident in Breighton, Yorkshire, England on 20 June 1942. He is buried at Holme-Upon-Spalding Moor (All Saints) Churchyard in Yorkshire.