6th Ranger Battalion Prepares for Philippine Landings; Hollandia, New Guinea, October 9-10, 1944

6th Rangers prepare to leave Hollandia, New Guinea to secure the island approaches to Leyte for the landing in the Philippines on October 20, 1944. This footage was shot between October 9-10, 1944, and seems to include different companies from the 6th Ranger Battalion preparing for embarkation. Note the use of Marine Corps helmet covers by Army personnel. These do not appear to be parachute silk or locally-made camouflage covers.
Some background: "The initial assault for the island of Leyte was to begin in the dim half dawn of 17 October, when elements of the 6th Ranger Infantry Battalion were to land under the protection of naval gunfire and seize the small islands that guarded the entrance to Leyte Gulf. Harbor lights were to be placed on Homonhon Island and the northern tip of Dinagat Island in order to guide the passage of the convoy into the gulf. Since it was believed that there were valuable mine charts on Suluan, that island was added to the objectives of the 6th Rangers." (from "Leyte: The Return to the Philippines" by M. Hamlin Cannon, 1954)
Footage Source: NARA, 111-ADC-3028
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[@4Bobay]

Cool video! It's nice to see soldiers in the PTO getting more recognition. (6th Rangers, 11th Airborne) Also soldiers wearing camo helmet covers.

[@marsoc17]

It's the first time I see Army Rangers wearing camo covers on their helmets like Marines.

[@gistories4145]

It seems to be very uncommon and limited to the 6th Rangers in the PTO.