WW1 British BEF Wheelwright Trade Badge

The WW1 British BEF Wheelwright Trade Badge is a period military insignia awarded to members of the British Expeditionary Force during the First World War. Designed to identify skilled tradesmen within the armed forces, this specific badge was issued to wheelwrights—personnel trained in the repair and construction of wooden wheels essential for transport and artillery carriages. Constructed from red wool and typically shaped in the form of a wheel, the badge was sewn onto the uniform sleeve, usually on the lower right arm. Its presence indicated technical proficiency and an essential support role within both combat and logistics units. This trade badge reflects the importance of craftsmanship in maintaining military mobility and effectiveness in the field. Wheelwright badges form a notable part of British military insignia from the Great War, representing the range of trades and specializations that contributed to the army’s operations during 1914–1918.