WW2 Dutch Netherlands Air Force Bronze Aircraft Mechanic Sleeve Badge - Australian Made - Stokes

An attractive two-bladed propeller upon an aircraft's radial engine in die cast bronze. This was an aircraft mechanic's sleeve arm badge. It has two original loops to the reverse and is maker marked Stokes (of Melbourne). Circa 5.2cm wide. In very good condition and scarce.

The Japanese occupied the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) in early 1942. A number of Dutch airmen escaped to Australia after surviving a fierce fight with the Japanese. They mostly ended up at either Archerfield airfield in Brisbane or Melbourne. These airmen were formed into a number of operational groups under RAAF control. All of their stores and equipment were supplied by the United States of America.

For a detailed history of their squadrons and operations from Australia in WW2 see:

https://www.ozatwar.com/nei-af.htm#:~:text=Netherlands%20East%20Indies%20Air%20Force%20in%20Australia%20during%20WW2&text=The%20Japanese%20occupied%20the%20Netherlands,airfield%20in%20Brisbane%20or%20Melbourne.

G53.2

Code: 62102