French Badge?

[Steve Mezey]

Hi All
I believe this to be French? Can anyone help as to what it maybe and from what era?
Thanks Steve

[byterock]

yes it is French
3rd Zouave Regiment Badge and their motto 'Here I am, Here I Remain' dissolved in 1962

[GAMS1]

It looks "old" but we need to see the back side to determine
the exact period.
Nick

[Steve Mezey]

Thanks

I will try to get reverse pictures and post them
Thanks
Steve

[scotty1418]

As stated, 3 Zouaves.

The Chobillon marking on the front would suggest to me that it's a WW2 era piece. The back will likely confirm.

[Tonomachi]

This is a rare badge and much sought after by US airborne collectors because it was supposedly worn by members of the 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment. The 3RD ZOUAVE supposedly gave the 509th PIR permission to wear this badge during WW2 and they continued to wear it after the war. Your badge is a French made WW2 piece based on the tiny raised lettering of CHOBILLON. CO. just after the motto. The back should have a vertical pin back with a "C" catch and have the stamped word of DEPOSE. If you have a chance of getting this grab it.

[scotty1418]

Its a bit funny to me as these badges are not uncommonly found in the French badge community.

Some airborne collectors seem to jump over themselves on the idea that a para vet might have worn the piece.

Finding one in an airborne group, that's special

[GAMS1]

Do you think it does exist a US made version of this badge ?
Quite interesting,i didn't know the little story ...
Nick

[scotty1418]

There are British made and US made ones.

The US manufactured pieces I believe are postwar-1960s~

[A. Bogan]

This badge is still worn by soldiers assigned to the 509th Infantry. US made versions are available.

[Steve Mezey]

reverse

Here is the reverse. It appears the pin is missing? What would it be roughly worth in this condition as I am not going to keep it if I do acquire it?
Steve

[scotty1418]

Pin damage would hurt, but as indicated, nice Chobillon Depose markings.

[GAMS1]

The pin is easy to repair in case of ? the whole system is still in place ?
This is a rare WW2 badge , hard to find ...
Nick