British airborne insignia

[Jerry B]

My collection of British Airborne forces insignia, part 1.

The iconic parachute qualification wings, three examples of the WWII issued types, all a different variation.

[Gunny Hartmann]

They really seem to vary in detail!....

[carpediem]

They really seem to vary in detail!....

Agreed. Is the third on a type of subdued version? It seems less colorful.

[Jerry B]

It is a type that is known for not being very colour fast, perhaps far east use might account for its fading. The padded back us unusual for wartime para wings, though us common on raf wings if the period.

[Jerry B]

Part 2,The airborne division pegasus patch.


A number of variants exist, course or fine weave and colours range from a rich purple to a darker almost earthy near brown shade. Printed and embroidered versions are seen, the printed are the official issue, embroidered were private purchase and can range in quality and detail.

Also included is a printed example of the Indian Airborne division patch.

[Jerry B]

The "lightbulb" (or parachutists badge without wings), issued to parachute trained troops who were not paratroopers, such air landing or glider borne troops. Post war it was issued to those who had completed the basic para course, but in practice everyone wears the wings regardless of if they ever served with a parachute unit.

A wartime example that was not issued, with the glue/size wash on the back typical of much wartime embroidered insignia to make the backing more stable.

[AIF]

Nice collection mate and well photographed

[Jerry B]

Nice collection mate and well photographed

Thanks.

I still have a few more items to add.

[HARRY THE MOLE]

I finally got around to looking at the post Jerry... and it was worth it! Thanks for showing.

cheers,
Steve.

[carpediem]

As said before, well photographed group! Do you have any UK uniforms?