The War Badge of the Naval Artillery
The Naval Artillery War Badge was a combat badge of the German Navy during World War II. It was established on June 24, 1941, by the Commander-in-Chief of the Navy, Grand Admiral Dr. Erich Raeder. It could be awarded to all ranks of the naval artillery (coastal artillery) and naval anti-aircraft units. Posthumous award was also possible.
Design of the Naval Artillery War Badge
A tall oval badge made of non-ferrous metal, later in the war made of zinc. In the center, a gun pointed upwards to the left. In the background, stylized waves. The gun and waves are dark-toned. Surrounded by a golden oak wreath tied at the bottom (typical of all naval badges). In the center, at the highest point, is the Kriegsmarine's national eagle, with a swastika in its claws.
The most common manufacturer of this badge was the company Schwerin Berlin; these badges are marked on the back with “Schwerin Berlin”.
Requirements for the award of the Naval Artillery War Badge
In addition to dignity and good conduct, the prerequisites for the award were the achievement of at least 8 points according to the following system:
- Shooting down an enemy aircraft by an anti-aircraft battery – 2 points
- Participation in the shooting down of an enemy aircraft, with the participation of several anti-aircraft batteries – 1 point
- Successful work of an anti-aircraft searchlight battery, which created the conditions for successful combat by anti-aircraft batteries or night fighters – 0,5 points
- Successful operation of radio measuring equipment, which enabled the shooting down of an enemy aircraft by anti-aircraft fire based on the target data provided – 2 points
- Successful work of a combat staff of anti-aircraft group or subgroup commands, which enabled the shooting down of an enemy – 2 points
The War Badge for the Naval Artillery could also be awarded regardless of the above conditions:
- For exceptional achievements in combat
- For services to troop leadership for officers
Wearing the Naval Artillery War Badge
The Naval Artillery War Badge was worn as a pin-on badge on the left breast. If the wearer had also been awarded the Iron Cross 1st Class, the Naval Artillery War Badge had to be worn below the Iron Cross. Wearing up to two Kriegsmarine combat badges was permitted. For example, the Naval Artillery War Badge could be combined with the Submarine War Badge , the Destroyer War Badge , the Auxiliary Cruiser War Badge, the Fast Attack Craft War Badge , the Fleet War Badge , and the War Badges for Minesweeping, Submarine Hunting, and Escort Units.
The certificate for the Naval Artillery War Badge
A certificate bearing the signature of the unit commander and the unit's official seal was issued for the award. The award was recorded in the recipient's pay book or military service record.
Value and purchase of a naval artillery war badge
Due to the sheer number of different variants, a value can only be determined individually. Individual badges can be worth between €150 and €500, depending on the design. However, extensive estates, including certificates, photos, etc., can be worth well over €1.000. Individual certificates, boxes, miniatures, and photos of wearers are also of great interest to militaria collectors.
