The Naval Artillery War Badge

The Naval Artillery War Badge.

Time Period: Nazi Germany (World War II)
Institution: 24 June 1941
Country: Germany

The Naval Artillery War Badge (or Kriegsabzeichen für die Marineartillerie in German) was a military decoration bestowed upon the personnel serving in land-based marine artillery and anti-aircraft units of the Kriegsmarine during World War II.

Instituted on June 24, 1941, by Grand Admiral Erich Raeder, this badge was presented to individuals and crew members of coastal defense units as well as anti-aircraft units in recognition of their valorous actions. Additionally, it was awarded posthumously to those who lost their lives in action while serving in this unit.

The badge was granted in a singular degree. To earn the award, a crew needed to accumulate eight points, which could be obtained as follows:

Two points for independently downing an aircraft.
One point for jointly downing an aircraft with the assistance of another crew.
Half a point for non-gun crew members who contributed to the downing of aircraft by operating searchlights, fire control systems, sound locators, or serving as radio operators.

The Naval Artillery War Badge Design

The medal, designed by Otto Placzek of Berlin, comprises an outer laurel wreath adorned with oak leaves, with the German Eagle positioned at the apex, its wings gracefully downturned as it clutches a golden swastika. In the center, a coastal artillery gun is depicted against a backdrop of the sea, rendered in grey.

Early versions of the medal were crafted from bronze, later transitioning to nickel. However, towards the end of the war, inferior quality versions were fashioned from materials such as “pot or monkey metal”. This medal was traditionally worn on the lower section of the left breast pocket of the naval service tunic.

More Naval War Badges

The Naval War Badges (Kriegsmarine) badges were awarded to sailors, officers, and personnel of the Kriegsmarine who demonstrated exceptional skill, bravery, and dedication in naval warfare. Explore the complete collection below: