Photo of Combined Ops Artillery/Navy Forward Observation Unit - British & Commonwealth Military Badge Forum

Harry Katyn · #1 20-10-22, 01:04 PM

I was having a bit of a clear out and came across this posed photo of a Royal Artillery/Royal Navy Forward Observation Unit from the mid 70’s(?). It’s not my field but I thought the ensemble of insignia was quite unusual (particularly the RN member’s ‘choice’ of beret badge) and that it might be of interest to the Combined Ops and Commando buffs amongst us.

13 Pdr · #2 20-10-22, 01:54 PM

Great photo Harry Katyn. Thank you for sharing it with us.

3dg · #3 20-10-22, 02:21 PM

Great photo
Not my area of collecting, but fascinating all the same,
may I ask what the badge is the RN chap is wearing please?

Chris

Postwarden · #4 20-10-22, 02:57 PM

It's the badge of a Royal Navy Ordinary Telegraphist as per the attached.

Jon

Harry Katyn · #5 20-10-22, 03:04 PM

Again not really my field but I believe the star above the two wings indicates a RN Radio Operator 2nd Class (formerly known as Wireless Telegraphist). I believe it to be a trade patch which would normally be worn on the arm.
I'm sure someone more knowledgeable on RN insignia can correct me if this is wrong.

Buttonman · #6 20-10-22, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Harry Katyn

Again not really my field but I believe the star above the two wings indicates a RN Radio Operator 2nd Class (formerly known as Wireless Telegraphist). I believe it to be a trade patch which would normally be worn on the arm.
I'm sure someone more knowledgeable on RN insignia can correct me if this is wrong.

I agree with you and it looks to be in gold as was worn on best uniform.

David.

3dg · #7 20-10-22, 03:21 PM

Thanks Jon and David,
Most odd, a trade badge on the beret, I wonder if this was common practice?

Chris