RAF No 657 AOP Squadron Royal Air Force badge circa 1940s

A scarce original circa 1940's period 'Royal Air Force No 657 Air Observation Post Squadron gilt and enamel badge', depicting a hand couped at the wrist, holding a gun barrel, with Latin motto "Per terras perque caelum" (By land and sky), the reverse with maker's details "H.W.Miller Ltd Branston St. B'Ham.18". Very good condition, retaining original pin fittings, enamel perfect, complete with card display backing.
Height 33mm.

Royal Air Force No. 657 Air Observation Post Squadron was formed in 1943 at RAF Ouston and saw action in North Africa of that year, it later served in Italy, Netherlands and Germany. In 1945, the squadron returned to United Kingdom and continued to support army units in the South of England until being disbanded in 1955.