Machine Gun Memorabilia: V22N9
By Robert G. Segel
Japanese World War II era proficiency breast badge for light machine gun. 35mm white metal with crossed Type 96 light machine guns. Hook and latch back. In original wood presentation box.
World War I era shoulder patches for the 14th Machine Gun Battalion of the 5th “Red Diamond” Division, for Headquarters, A, B, C and D companies. Two-piece construction with red felt backing and red wool front in the shape of a diamond embossed on the front and printed in silver “14” over “MG” and the appropriate company (HQ, A, B, C and D). These were made by a Pennsylvania company specializing in military and veteran ribbons. These were intended to be souvenir patches for families and sweethearts, but many were sent overseas and worn in theater by the soldiers.
New Zealand World War II era brass trench art dinner gong from the Egypt campaign. 9½-inch diameter with highly detailed design. Around edge is marked “From Mick, 2nd N.Z.E.F.” to the top and “Egypt 1940” to the bottom. In the center is the King’s crown over crossed Vickers machine guns over “NZ.” With hanging string. Rare trench art type of souvenir from the New Zealand Expeditionary Force based in Egypt during World War II.
Canadian World War II era silk and flock home front souvenir pillow cover for The St. John Fusiliers—(M.G.). The center has the yellow unit insignia of The St. John Fusiliers encircled by a white chain with a lion at the top. This is flanked on both sides by flocked Union Jack flags against a red background. Multicolored cloth fringe. The regiment was formed in 1872 and was then known as the 62nd “St. John” Battalion of Infantry. Ten years later it was re-designated the 62nd Battalion “Saint John Fusiliers,” and in 1900 came to be called the 62nd Regiment “St. John Fusiliers.” In 1936 it was amalgamated with the Headquarters Squadron of the New Brunswick Dragoons and A Company of the 7th Machine Gun Battalion, CMGC (Canadian Machine Gun Corps) and re-designated as “The Saint John Fusiliers (Machine Gun).” After the end of...
This article first appeared in Small Arms Review V22N9 (November 2018) |
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