CEF formation signs

[Bill A]

Some information to ponder. The wearing of CEF battle patches by the post war militia was authorized by Militia Order 525/1921. The conditions stipulated that the wearer must have served in the formation for at least three months, and they were to purchase their own patches. They were to be removed in the case of mobilization. If the officer or other rank served in more than one formation, meeting the conditions, he could chose the formation patch he wished to wear. The practice was ended and the patches were ordered removed effective January 1, 1929, by MO 403/1928.
For collectors, this raises questions about the authenticity of Canadian Corps battle patches. Are the C.E.F., or are they post war militia?

[fairlie63]

It is the same problem with Australian colour patches Bill. The post WW1 militia wore identical patches to the wartime AIF and in some cases these were issued from British made stocks returned to Australia from 1919 on. It is not so bad from 1930 when facing cloth was used because the materials are quite distinguishable. Prior to 1930 however it can often be anybodies guess!

[Bill A]

Hi Keith, Thanks for that information.
CEF patches tend to fetch premium prices, but not too many realize that they were worn after the war.