This is the Ferry Command "regulation" dark blue Battledress or Suits, Aircrew blouse. On March 25, 1943 The name "Ferry Command" was officially changed to "Transport Command 45 Group". According to Warren Carroll in his excellent work "Eagles Recalled" he states that when the name was changed many of the "old timers" retained their Ferry Command insignia. That is the exact case here where this jacket sports the Air Transport Command (ATC 45) brevet or wing but he retained the Ferry Command badge on his visor cap. Couple of interesting stats about the Ferry/Transport Command, it's flying component was comprised of approximately 75% RAF/RCAF service personnel and 25% civilian contract flyers. These flying crews were approximately 59% American, 28% British, 10% Canadian and the remaining 3% other nationalities. The one thing I have not been able to confirm is the wearing of the "star' above the rank. One source I found says you were authorized to wear the star after you completed 5 or 10 transatlantic ferry flights. But I have yet to find anything official, my search hindered by the fact that after the war many of the Ferry Command records were lost or destroyed. Also I do not know the significance of the solid red ribbon over the right hand pocket.

 

 

Couple of other Ferry/Command Items: A pictorial history of 45 Group and a Ferry Command duffel bag. When located, Ferry/Transport Command items are fairly easy to identify as it used the "Astral Crown" in it's insignia not the King's Crown (Tudor Crown).

 

Just thought I’d give this a one time bump.

Very Nice !

 

 

Wharf

Thanks Wharf!

Hi Paul, very interesting jacket and hat! That hat badge along with the duffle bag are just amazing! May I please see the rear of the beautiful and unique hat badge? Thanks so much Paul and great to hear from you again buddy!! I have some stuff to share with you for sure so keep an eye on the Forum...