Both, Allied and Axis planners, realized the great potential of employing aircraft to deliver supplies and personnel deep into enemy territory. The concept of Air Assault was concieved. The idea was to create a group of highly trained individuals who could be dropped behind enemy lines to cause all types of disrruptions and assist with the invasion of sectors.

The forces had to be self sufficient. They would have to carry all the supplies that they needed and would have to fight their way through enemy held territory, to link up with friendly forces.

Germany developed their paratrooper forces in the 1930's before the war started. At the start the paratrooper forces were under the control of the Army then later the control was transferred to the Luftwaffe. Each group developed its own combat badge.

German Air Force (Luftwaffe) personnel who completed the necessary tests and six parachute jumps qualified to receive the Paratrooper's badge. It was mandatory to requalify each year in order to maintain the award.
Towards the end of the war (1944), the award of the badge was extended to administrative, legal and medical personnel who completed a single combat parachute jump. The award was accompanied by a certificate.

This badge is fairly difficult to obtain (although not as difficult as the Army parachutist badge). Due to that fact, reproductions are out in the market.

The badge consists of a two piece construction where the eagle is attached to an oval composed of wreaths on one side and laurels on the other. The attaching is achieved via the use of two rivets. The eagle is in a diving position with the wings swept back. It is facing left. As with many other badges the eagle is clutching a Swastika. The detail to all components is of high quality.

A vertical pin is hinged to the top of the badge. A catch is provided at the opposite end. This secures the badge in place when worn. The pin was driven through loops (two or more) that were sewn to the chest area of a jacket.

This page is a recognition and identification guide for WWII German badges and awards. Multiple detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out clearly defined points that should be noted.

One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my WWII German badge worth?". A price guide is included here to address this question. The value of the badges and awards is reviewed over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth of the German badges in the collector's market is illustrated.

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