BL sub group? - British & Commonwealth Military Badge Forum

dumdum · #1 08-02-23, 09:03 PM

Hi all

While looking for something "completely different", as The Monty Python sketch would go, I found this.

Sorry that the front pic isn't much better but it says B.E.S.L. to the lower scroll. Maker is good old J R Gaunt.

As I post this, I have one of Bob Marley's tunes going on in my head....

Thoughts as to period?

Mike V, are you there? Hi mate, hope '23 is off to a good start.

Actually, best wishes to all for a much better New Year!

mjw · #2 08-02-23, 10:23 PM

British Empire Services League?

Kind regards, Malcolm.

mike_vee · #3 09-02-23, 09:00 AM

The British Empire Services League (later the Commonwealth Ex-Services League) was set up to represents the interests of Commonwealth citizens who had served with either the British or Commonwealth Forces.

I have a 'Commonwealth Ex-Services League' Malawi miniature that definitely shows a British Legion connection.

Found a 'reference' in a book , "Race, Empire and First World War Writing" , which would date the Jamaica Legion to post WW2. (another article gives a date of 1949)
NB: Ex-BWIR Association was for veterans of the British West Indies Regiment.

It looks like BESL and later CESL groups initially were aligned/associated with the British Legion but not formally branches .

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dumdum · #4 09-02-23, 10:37 AM

Hi Mike

Many thanks for that. I knew that you'd know! I have an unfinished one for the New Hebrides I think.

mike_vee · #5 09-02-23, 11:10 AM

Still going strong but noticeable that they aren't using the RBL poppy.

NOTE :The appellation “Royal” was granted by royal assent in 2003.

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dumdum · #6 10-02-23, 10:17 AM

Hi Mike

So a good chance that this is their first badge or dating from the 50's at the latest? Size and pin-back fixing would suggest this.

Thanks again for the great info!