Auxiliary Bomb Disposal Squads

[Postwarden]

At the height of the Battle of Britain in August 1940, the Ministry of Aircraft Production (MAP) wrote to the War Office to enquire what measures would be taken if an unexploded bomb (UXB) was found in one of its factories. They were informed that under the existing arrangements they would be visited by an Army Bomb Disposal Section who would advise on the likelihood of damage if the bomb exploded and detonate it in situ if required. Dissatisfied with the War Office reply with its implication of damage to essential facilities, the Factory Defence Section of the MAP asked permission to raise volunteer squads competent to prepare for the arrival of the Army by clearing and excavating the site of a UXB, making it easier for the BD Section to reach the bomb and defuse it rather than detonate it. October 1940 saw the official announcement of the creation of these Auxiliary Bomb Disposal Squads (ABDS) in factories run by the MAP, with War Office training for squad leaders. The duties of an ABDS were defined as the location and identification of bombs, the reporting of them as UXBs, the setting up of safety zones around bombs and preliminary clearance of the site. It was specified that each squad should consist of a trained leader and five assistants and should form part of the factory’s Home Guard. In December the scheme was extended to all factories undertaking government work and employing over 1,000 staff. Some 1,200 factories were included.

The attached images show some of the badges worn by these factory Bomb Disposal Squads. The example with "9" on the bomb has also been recorded with an "8". Does anyone have examples with other numbers on the bomb?

I would be interested in seeing other examples of ABDS/ABDU insignia if members have any.

Jon