Peter De Waele Posted June 27, 2018 Share #1 Posted June 27, 2018 I think they are fascinating. There are so many variations of the same design for different units. Given the fact that they were never officially authorized, I think the designs move from one unit to another with the wearers changing units. Is there a good source for referencing/dating these patches? Thanks Peter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flytiger Posted June 27, 2018 Share #2 Posted June 27, 2018 Using the Flying Tigers from the 229th as an example...the original similar was I think authorized during late Vietnam era with permission from the AVG Assn ( and perhaps Disney). This basic design has stuck around with some changes over the years. Usually some member of a unit will decide there needs to be a change and the Unit CO will approve same and then have x number of patches made for the troops. Sometimes a whole new design will be designated , perhaps when mission changed or aircraft type changed , etc. They are unofficial but worn with pride either as a button on patch ( not so much these days) or sewn on flight jackets, flight suits, and or "fatigues". The collecting of them is wide spread and you should do a study on the history of the unit to understand perhaps where and how the patch was created and why. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peter De Waele Posted June 27, 2018 Author Share #3 Posted June 27, 2018 Thank you for your input! I believe this one was made in Germany. Using the Flying Tigers from the 229th as an example...the original similar was I think authorized during late Vietnam era with permission from the AVG Assn ( and perhaps Disney). This basic design has stuck around with some changes over the years. Usually some member of a unit will decide there needs to be a change and the Unit CO will approve same and then have x number of patches made for the troops. Sometimes a whole new design will be designated , perhaps when mission changed or aircraft type changed , etc. They are unofficial but worn with pride either as a button on patch ( not so much these days) or sewn on flight jackets, flight suits, and or "fatigues". The collecting of them is wide spread and you should do a study on the history of the unit to understand perhaps where and how the patch was created and why. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Patchcollector Posted June 27, 2018 Share #4 Posted June 27, 2018 I collect Army Aviation patches.Many of the postwar patches kept the basic designs used in Vietnam. Here is a link to one thread I started about Post Vietnam War Army Aviation pieces: http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/274484-some-post-vietnam-war-army-aviation-patches/?hl=%2Bpost+%2Bvietnam+%2Baviation Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
easterneagle87 Posted June 27, 2018 Share #5 Posted June 27, 2018 This is a LOVELY rabbit hole! As a former Army Aviator I have a soft spot for them. Yes, many, many, many variations. Add a deployment - patches. Add a conflict - patches. Change the uniform color - patches. Attack, Support, Lift, Medevac - patches. Have fun! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peter De Waele Posted June 27, 2018 Author Share #6 Posted June 27, 2018 Thank you, that is a great thread! I collect Army Aviation patches.Many of the postwar patches kept the basic designs used in Vietnam. Here is a link to one thread I started about Post Vietnam War Army Aviation pieces: http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/274484-some-post-vietnam-war-army-aviation-patches/?hl=%2Bpost+%2Bvietnam+%2Baviation Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
easterneagle87 Posted June 27, 2018 Share #7 Posted June 27, 2018 Just as an example, Here are two that recently came into my hands. Moth to a flame The 114th AHC patch is from Vietnam and The HHC 5-101 Raiders, is one I had made for my section in 1992. The line companies had theirs, why shouldn't with have one for the re-fuelers. There aren't many of those around. Am glad to have it back, as I gave it to a friend and over 25 years later and now I got it back. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peter De Waele Posted June 28, 2018 Author Share #8 Posted June 28, 2018 Nice ones indeed! I have a Vietnamese made 114th too. Will check if I have the HHC/5/101st, but I think so. Just as an example, Here are two that recently came into my hands. Moth to a flame The 114th AHC patch is from Vietnam and The HHC 5-101 Raiders, is one I had made for my section in 1992. The line companies had theirs, why shouldn't with have one for the re-fuelers. There aren't many of those around. Am glad to have it back, as I gave it to a friend and over 25 years later and now I got it back. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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