RAF No 69 Reconnaissance Squadron Royal Air Force badge circa 1940's

A rare original George VI period 'RAF No 59 Squadron gilt and enamel badge' the embossed centre depicting crosed anchor and telescope, with motto 'With Vigilance We Serve; the reverse with impressed with maker's details 'H.W. Miller Ltd Branston St B'Ham.18'. Very good condition, complete with original buttonhole fitting, no damage to the enamel, gilt finish remains bright.
Height 33mm.

69 Squadron RAF operated briefly during the Great War and was reformed in January 1941 as a General Reconnaissance Squadron flying out of Malta operating the Martin Maryland aircraft, these were soon exchanged for the Supermarine Spitfire with support from the Martin Baltimores. The Squadron was posted to the UK in 1944 and continued in the Reconnaissance role as part of the 2nd Tactical Air Force, now flying Wellington bombers on night operations. They worked closely in support of the advancing armies following the D-Day landing. After the war the Squadron continued to be used for Reconnaissance, the last type of aircraft flown was the Canberra out of RAF Laarbruch Germany before its was renumbered 39 Squadron in July 1958.

Code: 63349