RAF No 17 Battle of Britain Squadron Royal Air Force badge circa 1950s

A scarce original early Elizabeth II period 'Royal Air Force No XVII Squadron gilt and enamel badge', depicting a Gauntlet with Latin motto below 'Excellere Contende' (Strive to excel); the reverse bearing all the attributes of an H.W.Miller but unmarked. Very good condition, complete with original pin fittings, pin tip blunt, no damage to the enamel, gilt finish remains bright.
Height 34mm.

RAF No 17 Squadron was originally formed in February 1915 and during WW1 flew BE2C’s, DH2 Bristol Scouts etc. It continued to operate during the Inter war years and at the outbreak of WW2 was flying the Hawker Hurricane, it would see action during the fall of France in 1940 and would defend the country during the Battle of Britain retaining their faithful Hurricanes. It would finish WW2 flying Spitfires in the Burma Campaign. The post war years would see the Squadron switch to the Photo Reconnaissance role flying Canberra jets, the McDonnell Douglas Phantom and the Jaguar GR1. In 1985 the Squadron converted to the Tornado GR1 and was operational during the Gulf War. The Squadron now flies the F35B Lightning vertical take off fighter and is operating off the Royal Navy Flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth.

Code: 63667