Perhaps one of the lesser-known Legions in the Second World War, the Free India Legion worn the same uniform as the regular German Soldier except for the one-of-a-kind badge worn on the right side of the right arm. This logo badge measures 5 x 7.5cm and consists of a tiger in front of the Indian Flag colours. At the top, it reads ‘Freies Indien’ which is ‘Free India’ in German.
Key Features
Material – 100% cotton, soft waistband and pockets. Wool/Polyester Blend
Meticulous Detailed tiger and Indian tri-colour
To be Sewn onto the Right Sleeve
Worn with the regular Heer Army Tunic
One-of-a-kind badge
Description
This shield badge was a symbol of the ‘Freies Indien’ legion which fought on the Axis side during the Second World War. The badges are made from cotton stitching on a woollen backing and measure 5 x 7.5cm. The meticulous detailed badge has a tiger on the Indian tri-colours, with black piping on the exterior. Our reproduction of this very unique badge is of premium quality and is to be worn on a normal Heer army uniform, on the right side of the right sleeve.
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Learn More
In its simplest form, the Free India Legion was employed to cause unrest in British India. It was formed in August 1942 and by the end of the year, it had a maximum strength of 4.500 men. They were mostly deployed along the Atlantic Wall. In 1943 the legion was stationed in Zealand and later Bourdeaux. When the D-Day landings commenced, the legion was tasked with fighting small French resistance groups – 25 soldiers deserted to join the resistance, however, they were handed over to the allied forces where they were executed. The legion was pulled back in August 1944.