History

Originally established during the First World War, Adolf Hitler re-instituted the Badge during the 1939 Polish Campaign. Rather than simply reinstituting the World War I Naval Wound Badge, Hitler chose to combine the Army and Navy types into one award.

The 1st Pattern of the wound badge is identical to the Legion Condor Wound Badge, and it was awarded between September 1, 1939-1940. The 1st Pattern is also known as the "Legion Condor Type".

The badge was awarded in three classes, with the number of wounds suffered in hostile action determining the grade. The Gold Badge was awarded for 5 or more wounds, the Silver for 3 to 4 wounds and the Black for 1 or 2 wounds.

The Badge could be awarded to members of any military or paramilitary organization, provided that the candidate met the requirements. The loss of a limb or eyesight during battle automatically resulted in the individual receiving a silver grade. Death or complete disability entitled a soldier to a gold grade, which the family would receive in case of death. Frostbite was the only non-combative wound, which would entitle a soldier to a badge.

In 1943, civilians working in war-related industries became eligible to receive Wound Badges, as they were often exposed to dangerous conditions in their work environments. As such, civilians working in military related occupations near the front lines or in destroyed cities or factories were eligible to receive the badge.