SAS Para Wing
 

Another wing from a small group of wings recently purchased here in the U.S. This was one wing from a pair with some attribution to a Rhodesian SAS Sgt. Inner chute area is purple, picture makes it look a bit blue.. Removed from uniform. Very pleased with this piece.
Thanks
Jack
http://http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/a...psfrwlt4pw.jpg

Hello Jack,

Looks original to me but it's not a specifically Rhodesian pattern. That doesn't mean to say the attribution is necessarily incorrect though. British pattern wings have been worn by members of the Rhodesian Security Forces. Former parachute trained members of the British Army , who later joined the Rhodesian Army, wore their British wings on their uniform if their new role didn't require them to have parachute capability and attend the Rhodesian course. I think I have some examples somewhere.

Cheers,

Graham

Hello Graham, yes Quite agree, these are of of the British pattern. The attribution had come via the person whom I had purchased these wings from. This officer collected a few wings along the way in his career. Gifted to him throughout his career. In this case named to an SAS Color Sgt who had served in Rhodesia.
Thanks
Jack

This is the 2nd wing of the pair. A bit worn but honest.
Jack
http://http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/a...psmzb26ejh.jpg

With the 9 feathers and the distinctive tall canopy with the 3 black lines, that looks to be the first actual Rhodesian pattern SAS wing. Originally issued on a black backing, the later versions were on a dark green.
The early black backed ones are VERY hard to find these days, I'm jealous.

Ian H

Early to mid 60's.

Thank you both Ian and Peter. Quite helpful to be able to date these. Would the first wing in my post also come from the same period or later?
Jack