Carrier for German 'Lederschutzmaske' gas mask: Sergeant Walter Ernest Brown VC DCM, 20 Battalion AIF

Cylindrical metal case to hold the German 'Lederschutzmaske' (Leather protection mask) respirator. The case has a hinged cap secured by a simple wire over-centre clasp. Three flat metal loops are attached to the exterior for the suspension strap. Remnants of string are present on bottom loop. The exterior of the case has remnants of olive green paint, while the interior has a black lacquered finish. Inside the cap is a small circular lidded compartment to retain spare eyepieces. Three pairs of unused eyepieces are present, wrapped in waxed paper bags with the words 'Klarscheiben vor Feuchtigkeit schutzen nicht wischen, nur am Rand anfassen, so einlegen:' ('For protection from moisture do not wipe, hold by edges to insert.') printed in black upon it. The eyepieces are of yellowed celluloid, with cardboard backing disks to protect their gelatine coated inner surfaces from moisture. Inside the container there is a primary filter for larger particulates that connects to the main filter of the mask.

This German gas mask carrier was collected, including the mask, by Sergeant Walter Ernest 'Wally' Brown, of 20 Battalion AIF, at some time between 8 August and the Armistice on 11 November 1918. Brown was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions during fighting near Passchendaele, Belgium between 5-10 October 1917. He was subesequently awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions on 6 July 1918 for single handedly capturing 13 German troops, including an officer, near Accroche Wood following the Battle of Hamel.

Brown served again in the Second World War and was killed during the fall of Singapore in February 1942.