WWI Army of Occupation of Germany ribbon

[richbradley56]

Hello folks,

I understand that the Occupation medal was only authorized in 1941 & have read that only the ribbon was available until post-WWII.  Also, the 1st pattern ribbon apparently had wavy outer blue & red stripes , replaced later by a thinner, straight stripes.

However, I've been seeing WWI uniform coats with the Occupation ribbon.  Some are obviously later, as they have clutch back bar attachments, but a few have been sewn.

This example seems like a very legitimate coat, with good patches for an Art'y Sgt.  W.H. Birdish, which appeared in the US Military Collectables Make Offer page on FB.

Although the Occupation ribbon is the 2nd pattern, it has made me wonder if perhaps the ribbon was authorized first & the medal much later, as in the Philippine Liberation ribbon & medal.

It could be, of course, simply be enthusiastic veterans, family members or even collectors who are affixing these ribbons.

I certainly have seen no written reference to support this idea.  Any thoughts?

[Allan H.]

I would only expect to see an Occupation of Germany ribbon on a WWI uniform if it was worn by a WWI Veteran after WWII. In many cases, collectors who didn't understand the understand the timeline on the award added them to uniforms. 

 

I guess it is up to the individual to decide, but the ribbon did not exist prior to 1941.

 

Allan

[richbradley56]

Thanks Allan - I suspected as much, but ya never know :-)