Description
U-Boat Close Combat Clasp in Silver by Schwerin Choice! This example is in choice/mint condition being a zinc-based badge with a strong silver-plate finish and a piece that can not be upgraded with regards to condition.
The U-Boat Combat Clasp was instituted by Commander in Chief of the Navy and Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz on May 15th 1944 for award to all ranks of U-Boat personnel in appreciation of the risks they faced. The criteria for award of the U-Boat Combat Clasp varied and was based on the recommendation of the U-Boat commander. Awards were often due to the number of patrols completed or demonstrations of valor in combat. Recommendation for award of the U-Boat Combat Clasp was forwarded to the OKM, Oberkommando der Marine -High Command of the Navy, and had to be personally approved by Dönitz before bestowal. Originally the U-Boat Combat Clasp was only awarded in a bronze version until regulations of November 24TH 1944 introduced a silver version. The clasp was to be worn on the upper left breast of most uniforms. The clasp was designed by the renown artist W.E. Peekhaus of Berlin and was only manufactured by the Schwerin & Sohn firm of Berlin. LH11312