- Time Period: Nazi Germany (World War II)
- Institution: 15 May 1944
- Country: Germany
The U-boat Front Clasp (or U-Boot-Frontspange in German) was a German military decoration awarded for continuous service and valor during World War II.
Established on May 15, 1944, the award aimed to align the U-boat force with other branches of the German armed forces, each possessing comparable accolades to honor acts of valor. Merits for receiving the award were not explicitly outlined; rather, decorations were conferred based on recommendations from U-boat commanders, subject to approval by Karl Dönitz.
Often, awards were granted in recognition of the number of completed patrols or displays of bravery in combat. The clasp was worn on the upper left breast.
The award was conferred in two tiers, distinguished by their material.
- Bronze: This represented the lower grade and was granted based on criteria such as the number of war patrols undertaken, the level of risk inherent in the missions, and individual acts of bravery.
- Silver: Introduced on November 24, 1944, this class aimed to extend recognition to bronze recipients who continued to demonstrate merit, faced heightened risks, and displayed acts of valor.
The U-Boat Front Clasp Design
Wilhelm Ernst Peekhaus from Berlin presented the design for the badge, featuring a central laurel wreath adorned with a stylized submarine and wings made of oak leaves.
Each wing consisted of six staggered oak leaves, totaling twelve. At the bottom of the central wreath, two crossed swords adorned the design, while the submarine in the middle echoed the U-Boat War Badge’s design. Integrated into the wreath was an eagle with downturned wings grasping a swastika.
Following the conclusion of the war, German sailors could only wear the medal if it did not bear National Socialist symbols, in accordance with the German Ordensgesetz. An alternative design featuring a complete laurel wreath, devoid of the eagle and swastika, with a submarine emblem centered within, was created for this purpose.
More Naval War Badges
The Naval War Badges (Kriegsmarine) badges were awarded to sailors, officers, and personnel of the Kriegsmarine who demonstrated exceptional skill, bravery, and dedication in naval warfare. Explore the complete collection below:
