Balloon Observer's Badge

In this article, we aim to explore the fascinating world of Balloon Observer's Badge and everything it represents. From its origins to its influence today, this topic has captured the interest of people of all ages and professions. Over the next few pages, we will analyze in detail its characteristics, impact and possible future repercussions. Without a doubt, Balloon Observer's Badge is a topic that does not leave anyone indifferent and that deserves to be known in its entirety.
Balloon Observer's Badge
Ballonbeobachterabzeichen
Balloon Observer's Badge in Gold
TypeBadge
Awarded forservice as a balloon observer
Presented byNazi Germany
EligibilityMilitary personnel
Campaign(s)World War II
StatusObsolete
Established8 July 1944

The Balloon Observer's Badge (German: Ballonbeobachterabzeichen) was a military decoration of Nazi Germany during World War II. It was awarded to German Army personnel who operated gas balloons flying them 300 ft (91 m)-500 ft (152 m) above the ground. The balloons were easy targets for Allied pilots and ground fire. Due to its late introduction, only a very small number of badges were awarded.

The die-struck badge features a laurel wreath of oak leaves and acorns surmounted by the national eagle grasping a swastika. Below this is a representation of an observation balloon. The Balloon Observer's Badge had three grades based on a point system: Bronze (20 points); Silver (45 points) and Gold (75 points).

Points were awarded for particular conditions, such as the difficulty and success of a mission. There is no record of the gold version ever being awarded. Recommendation for the award was rendered by a commanding officer of either the observer unit, artillery unit or army unit.

Notes

  1. ^ a b Angolia 1987, p. 104.
  2. ^ Angolia 1987, pp. 104, 105.
  3. ^ a b c Angolia 1987, p. 105.
  4. ^ a b Ailsby 1987, p. 179.

References

  • Ailsby, Christopher (1987). Combat Medals of the Third Reich. Harpercollins. ISBN 978-0850598223.
  • Angolia, John (1987). For Führer and Fatherland: Military Awards of the Third Reich. R. James Bender Publishing. ISBN 0912138149.
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