Hi All,
This post shows the two pre-production or ‘trial pattern’ hat badges made for the Australian Army’s 5th Aviation Regiment (see Vol 2, items CB 248R Variant 1 and 2). Given the images below, it is immediately apparent why the first trial pattern item was dubbed “Condom Man”. From that inauspicious beginning, came the second trial pattern badge, with improved detail to the figure’s helmet and so forth.
Both trial pattern items are cast one piece designs and do not feature any piercing to the Crown device. The later 3rd pattern item (which was approved for ADF production), closely resembles the second trial pattern design. However, the approved design is made in 3 separate pieces:
- the badge base,
- the ‘Pegasus’ and Rider figure and
- a separate face to the Crown Device
As noted above, the detail facade on the Crown element of the design, forms a separate piece, which is fitted to the top of badge body (in much the same manner as has been used for the production of the 6th Aviation Regiment headdress badge). The last of the images above, shows the chrome ‘Pegasus and Rider’ element of the design, as yet another separate element of the design, which is ultimately fixed to the badge body during the production process. N.B. The ‘worn right collar badge (shown above), was sourced directly from the approved ADF manufacturer… as were the two trial pattern design items.
Finally, the ADF issue hat and collar items, (as shown below), have piercings to the finished crown device. These features can be seen in the image of the approved issue items below. Please note that the recently issued 5AVN metal shoulder title is not shown in this image, since it was featured in an earlier post on the items recently released for 1Avn, 5Avn and 6Avn.
Yours in collecting and research
The Authors
“Metal Uniform Embellishments of the Australian Army”
Post 1953 (the ‘QEII’ era) Vols 1 & 2
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To quote and old friend:
“If you are able to read this, thank a teacher.
If you are able to read this in English, thank a soldier.”
charliebravobooks 