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Date	Original Topic
22nd September 2002	Helmet Plates By Mike Fuson Can anyone help me with identifying what the 78 - 81 helmet plate look like? After searching the web and reviewing the answers given to me on my previous Shako question, I think the helmet plates before, during and after this period looked like the following. Pre 78: Wreath surrounding a cut-out 24 in the center. http://jubal9.tripod.com/WelshRegts05.html 78-81: Star pattern with a solid 24 in the center. http://www.arbeia.demon.co.uk/srs/collect/milsig.htm Post 81: Star pattern with South Wales Borderers and Dragon in the center. http://www.rorkesdriftvc.com/shop/shop.php?action=view&prodid=74 What is confusing me is that in the film Zulu the 24th Helmet Plate Center does not look like the "solid 24" or the "dragon" described above. (In fact I think it looks like a sphinx.) So, do I have the 78-81 plate identifed correctly or not? Also, what is the plate used in the film? Thanks. Note: If you would like an MS Word document with the various plates available on the internet, just let me know.
Date	Replies
26th September 2002	Julian Whybra The shako plate of 1868-78 was supposed to be removed before entering Zululand but it wasn't. In fact it was in use throughout 1879. A picture of one appears in the British Archives publication I produced in 1991 entitled 'The Defence of Rorke's Drift': 24 surrounded by the garter, surrounded by a wreath, and crowned. I don't know what was used in the film.
9th October 2002	glynne mike, the helmet plate used in the film Zulu was incorrect. they wear the S.W.B badge which was introduced in 1881. Sphinx in centre. The badge is available from the regimental museum shop, see left hand side. hope this helps. glynne