Original German WWII Early Tombak Luftwaffe Radio Operator & Air Gunner Badge by C.E. Juncker of Berlin Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The Radio Operator & Air Gunner’s Badge (Fliegerschützenabzeichen für Bordfunker) is a commonly accepted title for the Luftwaffen-Fliegerschützen-Bordfunker-und Bordmechanikerabzeichen (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) 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, and was identical, except that the eagle is not clutching lightning bolts.

This example is manufactured in desirable early war tombak alloy. The obverse of the badge consists of a silvered half oak half laurel wreath with a mobile swas (hook cross) at the base, with an a rivet attached blackened “in flight eagle” superimposed on the badge holding lightning bolts in its talons. The reverse plain, with a vertical pin, a barrel hinge, and a round wire catch. The back of the eagle is maker marked with C.F. JUNCKER / BERLIN S.W. for the well known top class German badge designer and maker.

Offered in very good condition, with a great lightly aged look. The silvering on the wreath is still very well retained, and the blackening on the eagle has worn a bit on the raised areas, giving it a fantastic look. A very good example by a top maker, ready to display!