17 replies to this topic

[Jennings Lane]

Was this style of Air Force Hat badge actually used? When?

I was told that this design was never accepted for general use by the Air Force. Any thoughts? Thanks

 

Meyer. Approx. 2 5/8" tall.

 

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[MattS]

It wasn't. It is a prototype badge considered for use when the USAF became it's own branch in 1947 and dates from 1947-49. That's only the 3rd one I've seen, I own one. See: http://www.usmilitar...for-comparison/

[MattS]

Here's mine on an early wool cap:

 

 

 

[Jennings Lane]

Thanks. Much appreciated. It's a distinctive looking insignia.

[MattS]

In an odd coincidence, I bought mine in a shop in Louisville, KY which is where you appear to be from.

[Teamski]

They are out there.  I am happy they didn't go with them as they look horrible.

 

-Ski

[MattS]

They aren't very American looking, probably the reason they went with the standard Army pattern eagle in sliver.

 

Here's the second one I saw online:

[MattS]

Looks identical 

[Lee Ragan]

These were to be for officers. There were a few more proposed designs and all looked about as crappy as this one. I believe ASMIC Trading Post had an article on these several years ago.

[mikie]

They are out there.  I am happy they didn't go with them as they look horrible.
 
-Ski

Interesting. I have never seen one before. I must admit the very first thing that came to mind when I saw it was the KAOS emblem from the old Get Smart TV show.

Mikie

[u.s.martin]

If I'm correct there is another style where the hat badge looks like the upper portion of an Security Police badge.


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[MattS]

If I'm correct there is another style where the hat badge looks like the upper portion of an Security Police badge.

Yes there was:

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[MattS]

Interesting. I have never seen one before. I must admit the very first thing that came to mind when I saw it was the KAOS emblem from the old Get Smart TV show.

Mikie

 

Wow, now that you mention it...

[Jennings Lane]

In an odd coincidence, I bought mine in a shop in Louisville, KY which is where you appear to be from.

 

It's possible that these may have originally came from Jerry Dooley. Some of you will remember Jerry from the OVMS Show of Shows. Years ago, he purchased a huge lot of Meyer insignia. I bought a variety of insignia from him and some from the estate of a man that also bought from Jerry.
 

[mikie]

Yes there was:

The badges are interesting, but that model is awesome!
Mikie

[Jennings Lane]

I found this in the tub where I had the hat badge and some other insignia I purchased seven or eight years ago. It looks as if the badge was attached to this at some point in time. I still believe that this badge would have originally come from Jerry Dooley.

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[mikie]

Wow! It's great that you found that paper. That makes it just about as good as it gets.
Mikie

[Jennings Lane]

I actually have two of these from the same source. I'm keeping one for my collection, and listed the other one on eBay. I've also listed some other insignia and plan on listing more today. Other than the Air Force prototype, most is more common and priced accordingly. My seller name is junkmanaa. Even though I do have a retail store, eBay is tailor made for many things. I doubt that anyone is going to walk in my door and ask for a pair of 511th Infantry collar brass. Thanks

 

Andy