WW2 German Kriegsmarine Other Ranks Breast Eagle

The WW2 German Kriegsmarine Other Ranks Breast Eagle was an insignia worn by enlisted personnel of the German Navy during the Second World War. This breast eagle consists of a stylized German national eagle, wings outstretched, clutching a swastika in its talons, as was standard in Third Reich military emblems. The eagle was typically machine-embroidered in golden yellow or bright yellow thread on a dark blue wool backing to match the naval uniform. Worn above the right breast pocket, this insignia identified the wearer as a member of the Kriegsmarine, the naval branch of the German armed forces. The design and materials followed regulations set forth by the German military, with minor variations in style due to different manufacturers. Original examples were produced between 1935 and 1945 and are often studied for their period-specific construction, stitching, and fabric types. This item is representative of standard enlisted naval uniform accoutrements of the era.