Material: Silver and enamel
Size: 20 mm w × 28 mm h
Description: This "sweetheart" brooch consists of a horizontal metal bar supporting the official crest of the Royal Air Force. The central focal point is a circular band inlaid with deep blue enamel bearing the regimental motto "PER ARDUA AD ASTRA" in raised metal lettering. Inside the circle, a finely detailed eagle is depicted in flight ("volant") below a Tudor Crown (King's Crown), which is accented with red enamel on the cushion. The entire central device is mounted on a simple, flat bar with a pin-back fastener, designed to be worn on a civilian lapel, scarf, or blouse.
Reverse: Plain silver, unmarked, with integral pin and hinge assembly.
Circa: 1939–1945
Notes:
These brooches were purchased by airmen to give to wives, mothers, or girlfriends as a token of affection and connection while they were deployed. They allowed women on the "home front" to display support for their loved ones in service.