German WW2 Naval High Seas Fleet Badge

German Naval WW2 High sea fleet badge.

The High Seas Fleet Badge was a German Naval military decoration awarded for service to the crews of the Kriegsmarine High Seas Fleet, mainly of the battleships and cruisers, but also those ships that supported them operationally for which there was no other award given.

To be eligible to receive the badge one must have 12 weeks service on a battleship or cruiser, with proof of distinction and good conduct. The number of weeks were reduced if one of these conditions were met

• If the recipient was wounded or killed during the voyage.
• Outstanding achievements in an engagement.
• If the cruise was successful.
• Individual's ship was sunk in action.
• For participation in the sinking of HMS Rawalpindi by Scharnhorst and Gneisenau
• All crew members of the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau received the award in view of the operational effectiveness of the ships.
• To every sailor who was present on the Tirpitz when it was bombed and sunk on 12 November, 1944.

The award worn on the lower part of the left breast pocket of the naval service tunic, underneath the 1st class Iron Cross if awarded, or equivalent grade.