WW2 German Other Ranks Cockade

The WW2 German Other Ranks Cockade was a standard insignia worn by enlisted personnel in the German military during the Second World War. Typically crafted from stamped metal, the cockade features concentric circles in black, white, and red, which were the national colors of Germany at the time. This piece was affixed to the front of headgear, such as the M35, M40, and M42 steel helmets, as well as various field caps, serving as an identification emblem for Other Ranks, meaning non-commissioned soldiers. The cockade was attached by means of prongs on the reverse or sewn onto cloth backing, depending on the type of uniform and specific branch. Variations existed according to branch and manufacturer, but the overall design remained consistent. This example represents a common yet distinctive element of German military dress regulations from the period, offering a clear illustration of standard issue insignia used by enlisted ranks in the Wehrmacht and affiliated forces during WW2.