Identifying a cap badge

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 15/09/2013 16:06:21

I recently started a Topic, on behalf of Lowri Coulten, trying to identify a photo found in her uncle's wallet.
During the discussion there was a need to identify the cap badge - it was thought to be that of the RASC.

I decided to carry out an experiment - first I obtained a brass RASC cap badge - George VI cypher - and attached it to a green beret.
I then tried to get the correct angle and photographed it.

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 15/09/2013 16:07:40

My next move was to try and get the photo to match that which Lowri had sent us, so with the help of a little software here is the result...

Black & white photos for comparison

Any feedback/opinions welcomed.

Hi Nick,

I've had a good look at this and for the price of a pint (London prices) I downloaded to Kindle "British Army Cap Badges of the Second World War". Using this as a reference I made my list in order of probability, 1 being the most probable cap badge. Although not clear in the photo, it appears the center section is not solid and the cloth of the beret can be seen through the badge. There also appears to be some staggering of the bottom point (6 o'clock) consistent with The Worcestershire Regiment although the RASC looks the best fit.

1. Royal Army Service Corps

2. The Worcestershire Regiment

3. The Devonshire Regiment

4. The Cheshire Regiment

Regards Vic

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 15/09/2013 22:57:20

Hi Vic,
Thanks very much for taking the time and effort to study the badges and for the feedback.

The regiments you list were certainly given some thought and were high on the 'possible' list, however, as you pointed out the cap badge is voided (pierced) and so I discounted the Cheshire Regt.

I was fairly sure that the badge was surrmounted by a crown, so that meant the Devonshire Regt was possible but the voids seemed to be in the wrong position.

Despite it not having a crown, the Worcester Regt was my second choice, but, again, the voided areas seemed to be slightly wrong and during that era, the badge was elongated - so that was discounted.

Which left me with the RASC.

You will see on the two black & white photos, that the voided areas seem to match - even though I didn't quite get the angles right - but I'm fairly sure that the badge on the photo, that Lowri sent in, is the same as the RASC badge I photographed.

Nick

Nick,

Could it be The Border Regt?

JB

On second thoughts I also think it is RASC.

JB

Hi JB,

Thanks for the feedback - it's always good to have other ideas on this sort of thing.

I don't think it could be the Borders, as they have the scroll at the bottom and the void is in the wrong place.

It is heartening to see that you and Vic think it's the RASC too.

Anyone else any thoughts?

Nick

Nick,
I agree that it is RASC. I had a look at Gruffydd's 5 Troop and may have possibly found "Harry" in the Limehouse photograph. Unfortunately, no name.
Regards
Guy

Hi Guy,

That's fantastic!
I'm absolutey sure that is 'Harry.' All the features are right - the high, square forehead, the eyebrows, nose, mouth & chin and the same serious expression.
I also managed to get the two photos to the same scale and did some measuring of features - as best I could - to give a more scientific comparison and everything fits.

Thanks, Lowri will be pleased.

Your next task is to find out the name...

Nick

Nick,
I was sure he must be 5 Troop. Has Lowri seen the photograph, as I believe Gruffydd is also present? Where does the Southport connection originate?
Guy

Guy,
Yes I have sent the link to Lowri just in case she hasn't picked it up...

The Southport connection is, I believe, from references in Gruffydd letter's home...
Will keep you posted on any developments.

Nick

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 20/06/2021 00:37:39

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