1st Allied Airborne Army patch

The 1st Allied Airborne Army during the Second World War

The 1st Allied Airborne Army was a multinational airborne force created in 1944 to coordinate Allied airborne operations in Europe during the Second World War. Composed mainly of American, British and Canadian units, this unified airborne army was placed under the command of Lieutenant-General Lewis H. Brereton. The 1st Allied Airborne Army played a central role in several crucial operations, including Operation Market Garden in September 1944, an ambitious attempt to invade the Netherlands, cross the Rhine and enter Germany.

Although Operation Market Garden did not achieve all its objectives, the 1st Allied Airborne Army demonstrated the strategic importance of airborne forces in carrying out deep attacks behind enemy lines. Later, it also took part in Operation Varsity in March 1945, the largest airborne operation of the war, which helped secure the Allied crossing of the Rhine. This army marked the apogee of international cooperation within the Allied airborne forces.

The crest of the 1st Allied Airborne Army

The crest of the 1st Allied Airborne Army is a symbol of the co-operation and power of the allied airborne forces. It features a pair of golden wings, symbolising air mobility and superiority in the skies, surmounted by a sky-blue shield, representing the airborne mission. At the centre of the shield is a sword pointing upwards, a sign of the strength and determination of the allied forces. This patch embodies the spirit of co-operation between the Allied nations and the crucial role played by this airborne army in the decisive campaigns that led to the liberation of Europe and ultimate victory over the Axis forces.

Description of the 1st Allied Airborne Army patch

• 1st Allied Airborne Army patch
• iron-on or sew-on patch
• embroidered patch, high quality embroidery
• US Army 1st Allied Airborne patch
• dimensions: 8.5cm x 6cm