Here is a reminder of our earlier post on the topic of the RAEME (MARINE SPECIALISTS) hat badge (i.e. a bi-metal finish, one piece item with ‘PLATATAC’ makers mark in raised lettering). After reading that earlier ‘background’ information, you will find that we have now added images of the matching collar badges (OS jeweler-made and unmarked), which were procured directly by Unit personnel. These image updates show the collar badge set being worn on mess dress, together with an image one collar badge in situ on mess dress.
So, to re-cap…
Here are images we provided of the new RAEME (Marine Specialist) hat badge which has been seen in circulation. As can be seen from the images below, the hat badge is Maker’s Marked PLATATAC. Matching collars for this particular maker’s marked set, have not been seen to date. However, the original (Unit Procured) items are known to have been made in sets of hat and collar badges. The initial variant hat and collar set was first seen seen approximately 18 months ago) and images of the only known (and unmarked) collar badge variant, have been set out at the end of this blog post update.
No… we don’t think they are official. Nevertheless, the initial small run of (private purchase) items, now seems to have been remade. That (at least) implies a larger production run this time around.
Enjoy!
UPDATE (Re collar badge set):
Here are some images of the initially procured items… showing the hat and collar badges in some detail and in situ on mess dress uniform.
As stated in the brief ‘introduction’ to this updated post, these initial pattern items are known to have been procured in a order from a manufacturing jeweler in the middle east. The items were manufactured in gold and silver and were accordingly expensive private purchases.
Yours in research and collecting
Mark Corcoran
CoAuthor of: “Metal Uniform Embellishments of the Australian Army”
Post 1953 (the ‘QEII’ era) Vols 1 and 2
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To quote and old friend of mine:
“If you are able to read this, thank a teacher.
If you are able to read this in English, thank a soldier.”
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