Original WW2 Period 604 Squadron Cigarette Case + Lapel Badges

A very nice grouping of 604 Squadron RAF items including a cigarette case and two lapel badges. 

These items date from around the time of the Second World War and most likely belonged to a member of 604 Squadron. In the pre-war period this squadron was based at Hendon flying Hawker Hearts, followed by Hawker Demons'. In early 1939 the squadron transitioned to the long-range fighter variant of the Bristol Blenheim. Then activated on 24 August 1939 to operate long-range fighters from RAF North Weald, the squadron spent the first several months of World War II flying defensive patrols in support of coastal convoys.

The squadron was reassigned to a night-fighter role in late 1939 and was relocated to RAF Northolt in January 1940. By May 1940, the squadron had moved to RAF Manston. Following the Dunkirk evacuation, the squadron was based at RAF Middle Wallop at the end of July 1940. Late in September 1940 the squadron received its first Bristol Beaufighter and provided night defence over the UK during the Blitz from late 1940 until mid May 1941. By this time 50 air victories had been claimed by the squadron - fourteen by F/L John Cunningham. In early 1943 the squadron began to switch over to night intruder operations. In February 1944, the squadron was allocated to the 2nd Tactical Air Force and began conversion to the de Havilland Mosquito. Operations from Normandy began in August but the following month the unit returned to the UK, returning to the continent once again in January 1945. They remained there until disbanding at B.51 at Vendeville near Lille, France, on 18 April 1945. Some 127 air victories had been claimed by the Squadron during the war, 41 since May 1944. A notable member of the squadron, later awarded a posthumous George Cross, was John Quinton DFC.

The cigarette case is a typical example for the period and shows plenty of signs of use which is great. A 604 squadron badge has been added to the front. 

The lapel badges consist of a smaller size example which features a horse show fixture to the rear and the maker's name of 'Birmingham Medal Co'. The larger of the two badges features the same fixing to the rear and is maker marked 'J. R. Gaunt'. Both badges feature the text COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX (F) AUXILIARY AIR FORCE, 604, SI VIS PACEM, PARABELLUM' and feature a Kings crown. 

All of the items are in good condition with some signs of age etc. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing. 

A very nice grouping to an important squadron with lots of excellent wartime history. 

 

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'