LW Ground Assault Badge

Luftwaffe Ground Assault Badge (Erdkampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe)

The Luftwaffe Ground Assault Badge was instituted on March 31, 1942, by Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring. It was created to recognize Luftwaffe personnel—particularly those in Fallschirmjäger (paratroopers) and air force field divisions—for their involvement in ground combat operations, as the war shifted from aerial dominance to more frequent ground engagements.

Design Features:

• The badge is made from zinc or tombak, and features an oval wreath of oak leaves surrounding a cloud and lightning bolt motif, symbolizing a lightning attack from above.


• A Luftwaffe eagle in flight clutching a swastika is positioned at the top of the badge.


• The lightning bolt striking the ground emphasizes the aggressive ground-based combat role of the Luftwaffe troops being recognized.


• The reverse typically features a vertical pin with a hinge and catch, and some variants are marked by specific manufacturers.
  
  
  Award Criteria

Originally awarded to Luftwaffe soldiers who had:

• Participated in three separate ground combat actions on different days.


• Proven their combat merit in direct fighting against enemy ground forces.
  
  

As the war progressed, higher grades of the badge were introduced for 25, 50, 75, and 100 engagements, similar to the progression seen in the General Assault Badge.