Flight Badges of the Central Powers, 1914-1918: Volume I – Imperial Germany Aviation & Commemorative Airship Badges
By CDR. Robert S. Pandis USNR (Ret.)
12” x 9” Hardcover
310 Photographs, Bibliography
$95.00 Pp.313 pages ISBN-13: 9781495137846; ISBN 10: 1495137848
Language: English
Robert Pandis has produced a variety of excellent works on early flight badges ranging from his first book covering the “United States Army Air Service Aviator Wings” to the more recent work “Flight Badges of the Allied Nations.” This updated edition of “Flight Badges of the Central Powers” Volume I is, as are his previous works, the go to source for information and details on the particular nature of those insignia worn in the early years of combat aviation. Excellent examples of the select group of manufactures who produced the German Army Pilot, Observer, and Gunner tunic badges that were awarded during the war are covered in depth. Additionally the metal Airship badges that were commemorative, which is to say they were available to those who rated them only after the war, as none were produced during the war, are quite well covered. Pandis also provides a good selection of the shoulder boards worn by both Army and Naval personnel. The book is heavily illustrated with excellent close-ups of the various items recto and verso. Such details help to identify and to distinguish the genuine article from the forgeries. There is no doubt after reading this book that there are far more fakes available now than ever most likely due to the increased popularity and the number of unwitting buyers. The book is divided into eight sections, with the majority covering the various badge manufactures. Overall it is a comprehensive look at the badges, as well as a historical view of those men who battled a century ago in the skies over Europe. Indeed the images of the pieces are excellent and for that alone it is a worthwhile book to own. It is a well-researched book providing a clear concise understanding of the particular nature of these badges, making it a distinctive work.
Carl J. Bobrow
Museum Specialist, National Air and Space Museum
Linear Mode
Similar Threads