German WWII Luftwaffe Ground Assault Badge

German WWII Luftwaffe Ground Assault Badge-This is a highly detailed example with slight wear on the high points of the gray cloud and eagle feathers. This is a two piece example with three rivets that attach the Luftwaffe eagle to the base of the badge. It retains just enough of its original finish to see the color contrast in the design of this badge. Its maker marked below the hinge, with the initials 'R.K.' indicating manufacture by the firm of Rudolf Karneth. The hardware is textbook for this maker, with the hinge and catch plates still held in place with the original crimps. This is a very good badge overall.History: These were instituted by order of Reich Marshall Göring on March 31, 1942. To receive the badge, it was required you take part in three separate ground attacks in combat or combat support capacity. The member had to be either directly involved in the assault or hand to hand combat or be directly supporting such action. Members killed in action were automatically awarded the badge. Members of Assault Gun Units and Parachute Units were authorized to receive the badge, providing they met the same qualifications, but on three separate combat days. The badge takes the form of a matte silver oak leaf wreath surmounted by a Luftwaffe eagle. The center portion is a lightning bolt striking from a cloud, both darkened.