US 11th airborne patch - British & Commonwealth Military Badge Forum

Pembird · #1 25-10-17, 03:08 PM

Might anybody be able to throw some light on this patch l recently obtained. It’s large so was not worn on a tunic. I estimate 50/60s manufacture. Possibly for wear on a A2 jacket or overalls although it is quite stiff in texture. Any help gratefully received.

Phill Lockett · #2 25-10-17, 04:48 PM

Hi

Can you show the back.

Phill

Pembird · #3 25-10-17, 06:18 PM

Enclosed photo of patch reverse

3battalion · #4 25-10-17, 08:06 PM

To my eye it looks like a Japanese made 11th Airborne shoulder patch from the 50's.

Phill will be able to confirm this or otherwise.

Paul

Pembird · #5 25-10-17, 08:21 PM

Thanks for your input Paul, it has obviously got stiff with age but it is 6inches long which is huge if it is worn on ones arm!
Regards Pete

3battalion · #6 26-10-17, 04:59 AM

It might be a jacket patch given the size of it Pete.

Paul

Phill Lockett · #7 26-10-17, 05:04 AM

Hi there Pete and Paul

Looks like Paki made to me.

The size is too big, the bullion embroidery with black lines are typical of this style of Paki produced patch's.

These first started appearing in the mid 80's when I started collecting, they were mainly 82 and 101st and had the same manufacturing style.

So these are now 30-40 years old and will have some age to them. I'm not sure if this one is faded or they used incorrect colour felt.

Japanese never used felt.

They used high quality bullion and raw silk to fill in the design (hand made) which have a different look and they also used rice paper as a backing.

Phill