History

The German Wehrmacht was composed of three main branches, the Heer (Army), the Kriegsmarine (Navy), and the Luftwaffe (Air Force). The Heer and Kriegsmarine uniforms were based upon the designs utilized by their predecessor organizations, the Reichsheer and the Kaiserliche Marine. Conversely, the Luftwaffe uniforms were based upon the uniforms worn in the sports and paramilitary organizations that were the forerunners of the Luftwaffe. The Luftwaffe uniforms were specifically designed to deviate from the designs of the other Wehrmacht service branches. It was also necessary that the uniforms differentiate between military and civilian pilots.

The majority of cuff titles worn by Luftwaffe personnel were instituted prior to the beginning of the Second World War. The cuff titles that were instituted prior to, and during, the Second World War fall into four general categories: Campaign Cuff Titles, Commemorative Honour Cuff Titles, Formation Cuff Titles, and Great War Honour Cuff Titles.

The “Kreta” cuff title is categorized as a campaign cuff title. It was conferred upon personnel within all branches of the Wehrmacht who participated in the campaigns on Crete from May 20, 1941 to June 1, 1941, specifically, personnel who were part of a Luftwaffe crew that participated in operations over the island, or the surrounding ocean, prior to May 27, 1941, or Luftwaffe personnel who landed on Crete via parachute or glider between May 20-27, 1941. The cuff title was worn on the left forearm of the service tunic, greatcoat, uniform tunic, and flight blouse.

This cuff title features the obverse inscription “KRETA” and acanthus leaves on either side of the inscription. These attributes are machine-embroidered in a yellow coloured thread that may be composed of cotton or rayon. The cuff title has a yellow cord border along the top and bottom borders, the cord often composed of rayon. Each image of acanthus leaves may have seven or nine leaves, the more common design features seven leaves.

These cuff titles were awarded to all personnel, with no additional attributes that indicate the rank of the wearer.