BPM: Brevet de Parachutiste Militaire
Modèle 1946
Nicknamed "la plaque à vélo" (the bicycle plaque) because of the rays look of the ropes.
Meant to replace all previous para wings (Brits, US, Polish, FFL...).
Given numbered when para training pass.
Could be either cast (from the 1980ies) or strike. Chrome cast were locally made in Indochina.
Many diverse manufacturers and variants:
Drago, Arthus-Bertrand, Mourgeon (always from the 50ies and unique wings detached from the parachute), Andor, Béraudy-Vaur, Coinderoux, Balmes...).
The one given after the course are contracted and few maker were awarded this (Drago and Coinderoux for sure).
Most guy would have "fantôche" (not regulation means issued) one to wear for many reasons :duplicates for different uniforms, just not to loose the original numbered one, shiner version...
Issued to some 16th AAB guys every years as it gives a reservoir of able liaison team or HQ brick to jump with couterparts.
French Para got for the same reasons British para qualified
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