Original German WWII Luftwaffe Radio Operator & Air Gunner Badge attributed to Friedrich Linden of Lüdenscheid 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 looks to be early to mid war manufacture with a silvered tombak alloy wreath and attached aluminum eagle. 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 holding lightning bolts in its talons. The reverse is plain, with a vertical pin, a barrel hinge, and a round wire catch. The eagle is attached to the wreath via peened over posts cast into the wings.

There is no maker mark, but the style of the eagle and rivets is characteristic of Friedrich Linden of Lüdenscheid, who are known to have made many of these without any maker marking.

Offered in very good condition, with a great lightly aged patina. Ready to display!