Material: Staybrite (Anodized Aluminum)
Size: 66 mm W × 40 mm H
Description: The badge depicts a fully deployed open parachute canopy centered between a pair of realistically sculpted, outstretched stylized wings. Resting atop the crown of the parachute is the royal crest, featuring a crowned majestic statant guardant lion standing proudly upon the St. Edward's Crown. Measuring 66mm in width by 40mm in height, this insignia is stamped in brilliant anodized aluminum—commonly known as Staybrite—and features a secure vertical fastening slider on the reverse clearly stamped with the maker mark "J.R. Gaunt B'ham".
Circa: Mid to Late 20th Century
Notes:
The British Parachute Regiment was formed in 1940 during World War II following a direct order from Prime Minister Winston Churchill to create an elite corps of airborne troops. The regiment saw its first major action in 1942 and went on to play a legendary role in historic wartime operations, including the assault on D-Day, the drop at Arnhem during Operation Market Garden, and the crossing of the Rhine.
In the post-war era, the regiment transitioned into a vital part of the British Army's strategic rapid-reaction capability. These elite soldiers deployed to numerous global conflicts, including the Suez Crisis, the Falklands War (where they won two Victoria Crosses at Goose Green and Mount Longdon), and more recent deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Today, the regiment maintains its fierce reputation and rigorous selection process, known as "P Company", serving as the airborne infantry core of 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team.