Communications helmet decal?

[Blindpew]

Okay now your looking, what do you think of this?
I had to use a camera phone so the pics not too good on the decal but it looked to me like a WW1 insignia,oval in shape, and automatically assumed it was a WW1 photo.
Turned out it is in one of the 'Bird' newspapers, which I haven't had a chance to read, but its regarding Pigeon messenger services in the 2nd world war!

I dunno whats more intersting, the decal mystery, or that communication was still being attached to birds legs!

[Blindpew]

.

[Edelweiss]

Interesting... Wouldn't it be that one ?

I guess we'll have more clues with a good definition scan.

[Blindpew]

I'll get a decent scan as soon as poss.

[Charlie_Vaughn]

It may just be me, but from the photo I don't see the pigeon insignia on the helmet - it looks to be a standard Heer decal blurry and out of shape due to focus and conditions under which the photo was taken.-C

[Gene]

Interesting... Wouldn't it be that one ?

I guess we'll have more clues with a good definition scan.

BINGO!

[Blindpew]

.Scan

[thomaz]

IMHO that's not a heer decal
Looks more like a circle.

[Blindpew]

I tried again with a better camera but like the scan blow up, the detail is lost.With the paper in hand it looks like a 'badge' or 3 dimensional decal, the scan does it no justice.
The photo is on page 18 of the october issue of the 'Cage and Avairy birds' newspaper.
www.cageandaviarybirds.com

[Blindpew]

For those who might like to read the artical.

[Blindpew]

my editing skills are not too good.

[billbert]

Kind of looks like the poppy flowers the VFW give out to support disabled veterans..Billbert It does look multi demensional..

[Jos L C]

I agree..,it's not a decal..


Jos.

[Blindpew]

I've e-mailed the editor in a hope to shed some further light.Browsing for info I stumbled on a passage regarding communications and use of pigeons.

14. Messenger Dogs. Messenger dogs are not now included in the establishment of formation signals. They are still employed with infantry regimental and battalion signals sections, but this method of communications is being gradually replaced by the infra-red ray telephone.

15. Carrier Pigeons. Carrier pigeons are still employed by formation signals and are carried in mobile pigeon lofts which are constructed to hold 100-200 pigeons each. This method of communication is gradually being superseded by other means.
16. Despatch Riders. Despatch riders are provided for formation signals on a very limited scale. It appears that they are used mainly in cases of emergency. 17. Armament of Signals Personnel. Signal personnel are armed with a rifle and bayonet, or revolver. No light or heavy machine guns are carried


It would be safe to assume that the soldier is part of the signals division.
Is it possible it is a tri-badge? like what are worn on pith helmets? The helmet visor looks like it may be a M18, so possibly still a WW1 badge/insignia?

[Jos L C]

I'd say it looks like something to put feathers in for parade..!?

Jos.