German Narvik Campaign arm shield

Place Europe: Norway
Accession Number RELAWM30359.002
Collection type Heraldry
Object type Award
Physical description Zinc
Maker Klein, Richard
Place made Germany
Date made 1940
Conflict Second World War, 1939-1945
Description

German Army and Airforce Narvik Campaign arm shield. A pressed zinc shield surmounted by a Nazi eagle and swastika. Obverse: An eidelweiss between '19' and '40' over a crossed anchor and a single blade propeller with the word 'NARVIK' on a banner above them. Reverse: Four soldered pins for attachment.

History / Summary

Instituted on 19 August 1940 as an award to German military personnel who took part in the capture of the port of Narvik between 9 April and 9 June 1940, thus depriving Britain of her last foothold in Norway and Europe. Awarded in silver (zinc) to the army and airforce troops and in gold (gilded brass) to the navy.The shield was worn on the left arm.This badge is part of a collection of Second World War German orders, decorations, badges and insignia acquired by Flight Lieutenant K G Hesketh, RAAF Historical Records Section, who was based in London, but who made a number of visits to Germany immediately after the Second World War.