Historical information

During World War II (1939–1945), shoulder flash epaulets, tabs, and cap/sleeve insignia featuring a winged bird and a crown in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and Royal Air Force (RAF) represented specific ranks, unit nationalities, and historical design traditions. Officers slid removable cloth tabs or epaulets over their shoulder straps. The RAF officially adopted its own rank names (e.g., Flying Officer) and changed the rank braid to black with a central pale blue stripe. These were worn by Warwick Armstrong Sumner.

Physical description

A pair of black woollen RAAF WW2 shoulder tabs or epaulets with a buttonhole on the board or tab as well as on the underneath flap. Attached is a brass eagle or albatross badge with a king's crown above. A single pale blue and black cotton stripe is sewn below. The badge is attached at the back with small screws.