1970s US Air Force USAF Parachute Badge Type II - PJ Para Rescue Airborne Jump

Description

You are bidding on a Type II United States Air Force Basic Parachute Badge.
The badge is used and is in good condition with limited signs of wear with no enamel damage.
The reverse side is marked “NS Meyer” of
New York
with the duel NS Meyer Shields with one shield is marked with the NS Meyer manufacture code of “9M”.
The badge has a rhodium plating that was designed to deter tarnishing.
In 1956 the Air Force decided to stop using the US Army style parachute badge and created its own distinct Air Force specific parachute badge (Type I). The badge however was unpopular with Air Force personnel because it looked too similar in appearance to the Air Force Medical Corps Badges. In 1963, the Air Force parachute badge was discontinued and the Army style was re-adopted, however the Air Force style para badge was still authorized for wear by those who earned it. Sometime in the 1970s, NS Meyer produced the  Type II badge that was slightly larger and thicker in size and appearance to distinguish it from the medical corps badges as replacements for Air Force personnel who continued to wear the old Air Force style of parachute badge.
By the mid 1980’s the Air Force parachute badge was made obsolete. Be sure to check out my other auctions for more interesting and unique militaria. Good luck and happing bidding!