Rare WW2 North African Campaign Beja Battle Badge

Scarce WW II example of the red felt and aluminum award badge with original brooch pin to the reverse. A German tank pierced by a sword and the name plate "Beja" to the centre of a shield. Locally made in Tunis in North Africa from a design by the C.O of 172nd. Field Regiment Royal Artillery, Lt. Col. Graham DSO, it was awarded to some men of 155 Battery Royal Artillery and a few of the 5th Battalion, Hampshire Regiment after their heroic action against German Armour at Beja in North Africa. It is estimated that no more than 200 were made.

The badge is a white metal shield with a red felt centre with a white metal Tiger tank pierced by a crusader's sword ( sign of 1st Army ). Small plate inscribed Beja in top right corner. It measures circa 5.1cm by 7cm tall and has the original pin fitting to the reverse. It was worn unofficially by both regiments on the right breast pocket or right arm below 46th Division sign to mark this incredibly brave action. (Source: Norman Litchfield article MHS Journal May 1982).

BoBD No 827 refers.

Code: 62283