Austria, Republic. An Honour Badge For The Merit Of The Republic Of Austria, Gold Merit Cross By Reitterer Hold led by Squadron Leader Geoffrey

led by Squadron Leader Geoffrey Page (an ace with 15 kills)

Reinhard Suhren entered U-Boat service in 1938 and served as First Watch Officer on U-48

the eldest son of Archduke Joseph Karl of Austria (1833 - 1905) and his wife Princess Clotilde of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha (1846 - 1927)

as a Lieutenant with the Army Veterinary Corps

Army and became a Deputy Sherriff in Seminole County Florida

Austria, Republic. An Honour Badge For The Merit Of The Republic Of Austria, Gold Merit Cross By Reitterer Hold led by Squadron Leader Geoffrey(Ehrenzeichen fr Verdienste um die Republik sterreich). Instituted in 1952. In silver gilt, a cross with pebbled interior field, reverse mirrors obverse, measures 32. 5mm (w) x 37. 2mm (h), weighs 16. 4 grams, worn on original triangular ribbon, minor wear, in extremely fine condition. Contained in its original case of issue, a red leatherette exterior, interior marked with makers mark ANTON REITTERER, a black velvet recessed medal bed, measures 58mm