In our upcoming Militaria, Medals, Weapons & Sporting Guns sale at David Duggleby, we are excited to present two exceptional lots that will no doubt captivate militaria collectors and enthusiasts alike. The sale starts from 11:00am on Thursday 30th January 2025.
Among the highlights of the sale are two extremely rare examples of WWII Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF) Parachute Jump Wings. These embroidered jump wings belonged to Leslie Scott. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to acquire these extraordinary items, which hold both historical significance and collector value.
The Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force
The Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF) was established in March 1945 with a vital mission: to safeguard the thousands of prisoners of war (PoWs) held by the Germans. With fears that PoWs might be mistreated or even killed in the event of a German defeat, the SAARF was formed to provide essential support and communications.
The force consisted of 120 French, 96 British, 30 Belgian and 18 Polish personnel, all organised into teams of three, each made up of two officers and a radio operator from the same nationality. These teams were tasked with being dropped near PoW camps, where they would make contact with the prisoners and relay vital messages back to Allied High Command. Additionally, they aimed to arrange drops of supplies for the camps as the German supply system began to collapse.
However, the situation developed even more rapidly than anticipated and only a limited number of teams were deployed. Some teams were captured, but remarkably, many of these individuals continued to fulfil their mission even from captivity. The force was disbanded on 1st July 1945, having played a crucial role in the final months of the war.
You can read more about this special unit here.
Jump Wings
The aim of the Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF) was to train all personnel in parachute insertion, ensuring they were capable of being dropped behind enemy lines. However, not all members received parachute training. Despite this, the unit remained highly effective in its operations.
The unit also had its own distinctive crest, a jump wing, symbolising its unique role within the Allied forces. According to Wikipedia "SAARF insignia are one of the rarest Allied airborne insignia of the Second World War that were approved and issued."
Auction Highlights