by
A.J. Zawadzki
Many thanks Marc. Yes, my understanding is that these badges were made in the UK in 1940-41 to issue to arriving Polish airmen who had lost theirs since the September campaign and often harrowing escape to the west. In the case of Michniewicz, he was captured by the Soviets but managed to escape.
At this early time there was not yet a production order issued to Gaunt, Spink, Firmin, etc. These badges were supposedly made by the Polish squadron ground crew mechanics. Over the years I've save images of these "warsztatowki" as I've encountered them. Posted below is a sampling.
Regards,
Tony
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