Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Great War London Telephone Service Badge, awarded to Female Telephone Operators who remained at their posts during German Zeppelin Raids, 40mm by 30mm, bronze-gilt and enamel, centre with inter-twined initials ‘L.T.S.’, surrounded by the words ‘Air Raids - Ducit Amor Patriae’, surmounted by a crown, reverse with original pin fitting, good very fine and rare £50-70

This badge was awarded by the Postmaster General during the Great War as a mark of distinction to women telephone operators who voluntarily remained at their posts in the exchanges during air raids, in order that calls relating to such matters as aircraft, defence, police, fire brigade and ambulances could be effected. The majority of the switchboards were located on the top floor of the building under a glass roof, certainly a dangerous spot to be on duty during an air raid.