WWII NAZI LUFTWAFFE RADIO OPERATOR BADGE CASE

Constructed of card stock with a faux blue leather exterior, the obverse lid with gold embossed inscription of “BORDFUNKERABZ.”, the interior with a padded blue satin-type lid liner and intact hinge cover, with a slotted blue felt medal bed, opening with a functional magnetic metal spring catch with exterior stud release, with a functional magnetic metal hinge, unmarked, measuring 68 mm (w) x 76 mm (l) x 24 mm (h). The Wireless Operator’s/Air Gunner’s qualification badge was introduced by Hermann Göring on March 26TH 1936 for award to radio operators, air gunners and mechanics who had met the required criteria. The Wireless Operator’s/Air Gunner’s badge was awarded on an individual basis and the main criteria for bestowal of the award was the completion of five operational flights over enemy territory or a minimum of two months active service. As with other flyer’s specialty badges a cloth version of the Wireless Operator’s / Air Gunner’s Badge was authorized for wear on the flight blouse with a machine embroidered pattern for EM/NCO’s and a hand embroidered pattern for Officer’s. Of Note: After the introduction of the Air Gunner’s badge on June 22ND 1942, the Wireless Operator’s / Air Gunner’s badge was re-designated Bordfunkerabzeichen, (Wireless Operator’s Badge), and was bestowed exclusively to Wireless Operators.