This badge was amongst a small group of items brought home by an American OSS officer. He was involved in operations in the Balkan countries. I had posted a few pieces from the group several months back on the USMF.

 

The Croatian military forces were part of the Axis forces and allied strongly with the Germans. This badge clearly reflects their connection to the Luftwaffe. The German version of this was also awarded to the DLV. The difference in this badge versus it's German counterpart is the addition of the Croatian National Shield. There was also an emblem above the shield that was been worn off a bit. It is heavily padded and has a bullion corded border. As you can see from the reverse it has been mounted over an aluminum disc.

 

 

 

 

Reverse

 

Wow that is one rare badge and thanks for sharing this.