Original German WWII Cased Luftwaffe Air Gunner and Flight Engineer Badge by F. W. Assmann & Söhne Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The Air Gunner’s and Flight Engineer’s badge (Fliegerschützenabzeichen für Bordschützen und Bordmechaniker) was a German military decoration awarded to air gunners, mechanics (flight engineers) or aircrew meteorologists who were members of the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) after they completed two months training or had taken part in at least five operational flights. If one was wounded during an operational flight, the badge could be awarded earlier. For Luftwaffe members who were air gunners and mechanics (flight engineers) this badge replaced an earlier separate badge which had been introduced back in 1935, without lightning bolts. The qualifications for the two badges were the same for recipients.

This example is manufactured in the later war silver plated zinc alloy, and comes complete in its original presentation case. The obverse of the badge consists of a half oak half laurel wreath with a mobile swas (hook cross) at the base, with an an “in flight eagle” superimposed on the badge with empty outstretched talons. The reverse is plain, with a vertical pin, a barrel hinge, and a flat wire catch. The back of the eagle is maker marked with the “barred A” trademark, of F. W. Assmann & Söhne of Lüdenscheid, a large maker of belts, buttons, and other accoutrements.

The included case is the correct Luftwaffe Fliegerblau (flyer’s blue) color, and originally was marked Bordmechaniker abz. (on-board mechanic badge) on the top in gold lettering, though it has now almost completely worn away. It can however still be read in the light. It has an inset in the bottom for the badge, and the top is lined with blue satin. It shows wear on the exterior, but still locks correctly closed.

Offered in very good condition, with a great aged patina. Ready to add to your collection!