Banak Pin - Help Please

[Tim O.]

Hi Guys

I'm putting this on the Luftwaffe forum because, as far as I know, the Banak air base in North Norway was exclusively a Luftwaffe posting. I have a group of certificates to an air gunner from 5./KG30 which include the certificate issued to aircrew by the Hauptling of Banak for service at the base and also a drawing of the shield portrayed on this pin (which I think depict the arms of the Hauptling of Banak). I like the reindeer footprints across the centre! I assume this pin is a civilian private purchase but did it actually have some official status? I wondered if perhaps application for an official arm shield was made but was refused by the authorities, so these pins were then produced. Does anyone know the story? Here is the pin, which I bought separately to the certificate.

Any information welcome, as I have never seen anything in the literature on this subject.

Thanks and best wishes
Tim O.

[Tor]

Banak crest

The shield/crest was a official emblem of Banak. Just to give you an idea, you can take a look at the photo below. It's captured at the Casino at Lakselv/Banak.

I'm in possesion of a hand carved shield just like your pin. A relative of mine who was with KG 30 has 5 of them.

If you like, I could take a photo of the wood shield. Collect everything, mostly photos, since I grew up in Lakselv.

http://d2134644.u48.surftown.nu/copp...LWBanak007.jpg


In case the photo will not be shown, use the link above.

[Tim O.]

Hi Tor

That is helpful information. Do you know whether the pins were awarded or bought privately?

If you can post a photo of the carved shield that would be great.

best wishes
Tim O.

[Peppe864]

Nice pin Tim Very nice indeed!!!!!

[Tor]

Don't think it was awarded. Since my relative have 5. Guess they got them, or maybe bought them. I know that some of the locals also had this pin.

I think this is more like a shield or sign you find on other places that had a large number of soldiers.

Will post some photos of the wodden carved one this evening.

[Tor]

Carved Banak Shield

Here comes the photos of the woodden carved Banak shield.
In good condition.

[Tor]

Back side

And here is the back.

[Tim O.]

Thanks for sharing this Tor. An interesting item. Thanks also for the information.

best wishes
Tim O.