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 "Geschwader Horst Wessel" cuff title is categorized as a commemorative honour cuff title. It was worn by personnel with any rank of the Fliegergeschwader Dortmund. The title was worn on the right forearm of the service dress jacket, and on the flight blouse and summer tunic for Officer ranks.

This cuff title features the obverse inscription “GESCHWADER HORST WESSEL” in silver-coloured gothic lettering. For Officers, the inscription is composed of silver/aluminum wire. For NCO/EMs (Non-Commissioned Officers and Enlisted Men), the inscription is composed of matte-grey cotton/silver thread.