Netherlands, Kingdom. An Airman's Cross To A Four Time Recipient, English-Made, C.1945

(Vliegerkruis). Instituted in 1941. In silver, marked "SILVER" on the reverse, made in England during the Second World War German occupation of the Netherlands of 1943-1944, measuring 30.5 mm (w) x 34 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, very light contact, crown clasp (Mentioned in Despatches) and IV Wings clasp (four time recipient of the award) affixed to its original ribbon, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, white thatched-look exterior, inside lid in white satin and maker marked "SPINK & SON Ltd", base in black felt and incorporating a recessed medal bed, lightly soiled on the exterior, case also near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Airman's Cross (AKA Flying Cross) is an important military decoration of the Kingdom of the Netherlands created in 1941. The cross is meant for those Dutch military, who displayed during one of more flights in an aircraft, initiative, courage and perseverance against the enemy or during hostile actions. The cross is also awarded to allied pilots, whose actions or performances in the air were of high importance for the Netherlands. As of 2007, a total of 735 Airman's Crosses are awarded. The Airman's Cross is the fifth highest military decoration still being awarded for bravery and has precedence after the Cross of Merit.