Veteran Bring Back German WWII Kriegsmarine Destroyer Badge-This badge was awarded for 1) participation in three engagements with the enemy; 2) participation in three offensive mine laying operations; 3) 12 operations against the enemy without contact, and under several other possible qualifying conditions. The design was by renowned Berlin artist Paul Casberg. This is an absolutely gorgeous early example. It does have the majority of its gold finish missing on the wreath, but the wreath has a nice light goldish tone that stands out nicely against the dark gray ship. The details on the wreath, waves and ship are terrific. It is very nicely marked on the reverse for Schwerin. The horizontal pin setup works as intended. There is a stabilizing hook at the top reverse that would clip onto your tunic. We received this badge directly from the family of a US veteran, and we will supply the name to the buyer. Overall, a handsome badge in very good condition.
History: The Destroyer War Badge was instituted on June 4th, 1940 by the Commander in Chief of the Navy and Grand Admiral, Erich Raeder, for award to destroyer crew members who had participated in the naval battle for Narvik, Norway, under the command of Kommodore Friedrich Bonte. Regulations of October 1940 extended bestowal of the Destroyer War Badge to include other destroyer, torpedo, and E-boat personnel involved in other naval battles who met a preset criterion.