4th Armoured Brigade's Black Jerboa

[Postwarden]

The 4th Armoured Brigade arrived in Italy from North Africa on 23rd September 1943 where it remained until embarking for England in late January 1944.

Its black jerboa, although first recorded in a Middle East Forces secret document on vehicle markings in October 1943 does not appear to have been worn on uniform in Italy, an extensive search failing to turn up examples of the badge on khaki drill slip-ons which might be expected and which are recorded for most other formations which served in Italy.

Has anyone ever seen a version on KD or a photo of it being worn on KD uniform?

Jon

[Mike Jackson]

My answer is No - and I wonder why not? But by 1 Feb 44 German intelligence had identified the sign, probably from a knocked out tank rather than a PW's uniform. Mike
DBK_4 Armd Bde.jpg

[Postwarden]

Mike,

Thanks. Thinking about it further the absence of an example on KD may be because for the period the Brigade was in Italy battle dress would have been the normal outfit as it was winter.

I have recorded the attached woven example of the badge which may, just from its style, be Italian-made. But all examples appear to be unworn.

Curiouser and curiouser.

Jon