German WWII Radio Operator & Air Gunner\'s Badge by JMME & SOHN Berlin . N 189. German WWII Radio Operator & Air Gunner\'s Badge by JMME & SOHN Berlin . N 189. Antiques & Militaria

The Radio Operator & Air Gunner's Badge is a commonly accepted title for the (Combined Air Gunner, Radio Operator and Flight Engineer Badge). It was a German military decoration awarded to radio operators, air gunners, and mechanics (flight engineers) who were members of the German Air Force (Luftwaffe). This is given after they completed two months training or had taken part in at least five operational flights. If wounded during an operational flight, the badge could be awarded and worn earlier. Later in June 1942, a separate badge was introduced for air gunners and flight engineers. That badge had the same qualifications. The badge came into existence in 1935. It was to be worn on the lower section of the left breast side of the tunic, below the Iron Cross. The badge is oval in shape and has a silver-plated outside wreath around the rim. The middle of the wreath has a national eagle "flying from left to right in a downwards direction"; clutched in its claws were two crossed arrow-head lightning bolts. The polished eagle was also silver-plated, but made of "oxidized old-silver" giving it a different shade of colour than the polished wreath. The right side of the wreath was composed of laurel leaves and the left side of oak leaves. A Nazi swastika was at the bottom middle of the outside wreath. The badge was originally made of aluminium. However, it was made only of a simple metal alloy during the latter stages of World War II. See page 210 of Combat Medals of the Third Reich by Christopher Ailsby for reference. JMME is clearly stamped to the rear. In very good condition, the clasp and pin are intact. The price includes UK delivery. N 189.