RCAF RADAR Patch

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Location: Lorne Watson Collection, SJ McKee Archives

This RCAF RADAR patch measures 5.25 inches wide, and it is constructed of cloth. It is in good condition with some loss of cloth about 2 cm in length along the edge underneath the letters D and A in the word RADAR. This exposes a mesh separating the green backing from the purple front with the embroidered and stitched lettering and logo. 

The patch was likely constructed during or post-Second World War, possibly in Great Britain or in Canada. The patch was donated to the SJ McKee Archives as part of the Lorne Watson Collection in 2010.

Lorne Watson enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 1942. He served with the RADAR branch and was released from service in September 1945, at the rank of Flying Officer. The patch was only given out to RADAR operators. The patch was likely made as a souvenir for those who operated or trained on RADAR. There is no specific literature available on the patch, but a significant amount has been written about Canadian RADAR operators in the Second World War, and this history is also well documented at the Secrets of RADAR Museum in London, Ontario.

Research and description: John B.

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