Paratrooper Badge [JMME & SOHN]

Luftwaffe Parachutist Badge (Fallschirmschützenabzeichen) Established in 1936 for members of the paratrooper units (Fallschirmjäger). To earn the badge, a candidate had to complete a minimum of 6 jumps (day and night, including one in full combat gear) and pass an exam on equipment and airborne tactics. The unit was considered elite, with an all-volunteer selection process and a high dropout rate. The Fallschirmjäger gained fame after the airborne assault on Crete in 1941, and later took part in the rescue of Mussolini and the defense of Monte Cassino, earning a reputation as one of the best units in the Wehrmacht. Worn on the left breast of the tunic. Several types and variations exist depending on material, manufacturing method, factory, and year of production. This remains one of the most widely collected Luftwaffe badges among Third Reich militaria collectors.