The reason I associate the ‘pre 1972’ wings with the RM is that there are definitely RM wings issued in the 1990s in the same colours & configuration (excess material around the badge but with the same shape as the wings). Whether or not they were also issued to the RAF I don’t know but I know the smaller stone backed ‘post 1972’ wings featured above by Bess55 definitely were used by the RAF in the 1980s and 1990s.
Both the RM and the RAF used stone shirts extensively in hot climates, so could well have used the same wings, with the Army using OG or DPM clothing having no need for a stone backed version.
There were no official RAF para wings in WWII so those few RAF personnel earning wings would have used whatever they got issued or could buy as private purchase. Those serving in the Far East would have been able to obtain the black backed wings used there.
WWII RAF PJIs wore a different design - a parachute in a wreath.
Last edited by Colin S; 14-10-22 at 09:37 PM.
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