No 2 Commando Beret badge

Hi
Can anyone help with the chronolgy of the No 2 Cdo beret badge.

Was the metal version ever actually worn on the Beret? Was the officers badge different fron OR's

There is a story they were made from spoons?

There seems to be a lot of metal examples of the SS with a knife between pointing downwards was this actully the badges form or not.

Thanks for any help.

Bluefrog

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 15/04/2007 16:01:33

1. The badge always had the fighting knife pointing downwards.

2. Yes, the story that the O.R.s badges with just the knife on a black background were made from spoons is correct. It was a tedious job, - (spoons were not provided).

3. Officers simply put one of the S.S. initials and knife shoulder patches onto their headgear. This was made from silver wire thread on black felt cloth. All ranks had to purchase this insignia themselves from unit H.Q.

4. The current example of the metal S.S. initials and fighting knife pointing downwards is one currently available and seems to be worn by all 2 Commando veterans when they are at veterans events.

5. If this sounds confused, the rule was that officers got to wear the S.S. and knife on their beret and O.R.s wore the knife only. This rule was not changed during the period of 2 Commandos existence (1940-1945)

Thanks Bob that clears up a lot of confusion.

Glad to make your aquaintance.

Do you get over to the UK very often for the events at Spean Bridge?
Regards
Bluefrog

Hi again Bob
re your photo I see you have the MC......any story to tell?
Regards again
Bluefrog

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 15/04/2007 19:00:24

Hi Bluefrog (what is your real name?)

I haven't been back to Spean Bridge since 1942 when I finished at Achnacarry. However, my wife, Janet, and I are planning to make the trek this November. Perhaps we will meet up there then.

Do you have any particular interest in No. 2 Commando - perhaps relatives or friends?

Hello Bob

My name is Robert.

My interest is in all the Commando units of WW2. I knew a 2Cdo veteran John Murphy who sadly past away last year.

Regards
Bluefrog
Robert

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 05/05/2007 14:44:20

Hi All
Here is a picture illustrating what Bob was refering to . On the back of this one it says " Old Charlie V.C. captured St. Nazaire" You can see the dagger pointing downward with the" S S" on the arm badge and the downward dagger on the beret badge

Regards
Lindsay

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 03/05/2007 06:07:01

Hi Lindsay

Nothing to do with the badge...........although it shows it very clearly but I'd thought I'd say what a fabulous picture of Lt Cln Newman VC.

It really is a great portrait of him.

Best wishes
John M

Brilliant photo of Lt Col Newman VC - please see this illustration of him pipe in mouth...

Hi NIC

Thats a good illustration as well.

BTW- I have adjusted ( straightened , enlarged and renamed ) the photo for those who may wish to download it. )

Hi, on the subjetct of the No2 Commando cap badges. i've seen brass cap badges with SS on either side of the knife but this cap badge has the word Commando above the SS. Anyone got any information on this badge will be greatley appreciated.
Thanks
ted Land

Ted Land wrote:Hi, on the subjetct of the No2 Commando cap badges. i've seen brass cap badges with SS on either side of the knife but this cap badge has the word Commando above the SS. Anyone got any information on this badge will be greatley appreciated.
Thanks
ted Land

From Ted's descriptions I think the badges he's enquiring about are something like these?

Nick

Thanks Nic, yep that's the cap badge i've seen. Thanks for putting the photos on the site, fingers crossed we'll get some information on the badge. thanks Ted

Here are a few variations for you.........

Hey great pics What book did that come from?