I finally was able to speak with Russ yesterday as the Halifax Rifles Association has a belated get together at his house to celebrate his award of the French Legion of Honor. He said that the full Air Gunner wing was an official issue item but, no sooner was it issued, that it was quickly withdrawn from service. As he had been issued this wing, he continued to wear it as no one said anything to him. To me, this is very interesting as it was government issue and not a private purchase item.
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