1 Cdn SW Group ww2 formation badge (felt)

The lower patch is the WW2 Australian Corps of Signals cloth patch. The upper patch is an unidentified Australian badge and is shown because it came in the same grouping.

From the unit's War Diary "Aboard TSMV SOCOTRA at Sea: 18 Feb: Approval granted by N.D.H.Q. through Canadian Military Attache for personnel of this Unit to wear the Austrailian Corps of Signals cloth patch. One set of patches issued to each soldier; to be worn on each sleeve in the same position as Canadian Divisional patches."

Reports are that the CO and RSM had anticipated this approval and brought sufficient patches on board before departing Australia. As a one time procurement there are no variations on the 1 CSWG issue of these badges (I have seen three examples from members of the unit and all are exactly the same colouring and construction. The pictured patch is from Capt Wardrop.) although there will likely be variations of the patch as worn by the Australians.

Records indicate that "400 pairs colored patches" were purchased by the Men's Canteen Fund on 6 February 1946 at a total cost of $47.70.^[1]

References

1. ↑ File SHQ-20-13-12-11-D - Army - Organization, training etc. - Ordnance services - Generally - Coast defence and anti-aircraft defence units - Equipment - Pacific Command - Signals. File held at Library and Archives Canada.