International Para Wings Coin

Historical Information:

In the early 90's, high ranking Asian personnel that jumped in training with SASR, started wearing SASR para wings - raising a few eyebrows.

The standard SASR wings are much more than simple parachute wings. They represent an SASR qualification, awarded only to those who have successfully completed selection and the full series of specialist courses. It is comparable to how the SEAL Trident is awarded to members of the US Navy SEALs.

In 1995 SASR created metal wings to present to foreign exchange personnel so they could wear these on their uniforms and not the SASR wings. 200 plastic coated metal wings were made and are hallmarked 'SHERIDAN PERTH'. 

Although the wings were originally intended for foreign exchange personnel attached to the unit, they were often presented during training exercise jumps. As a result, supplies quickly ran out and no additional wings were ever produced. Since 1998, any foreign personnel who complete jumps with the unit during training have been presented with the standard cloth Army Parachutist Wing.

The insignia is referenced as:

•  #317 in the book 'Anzac Elite – The Airborne and Special Forces Insignia of Australia and New Zealand ' and;
• #121 in the book  'Australian Airborne - The History and Insignia of Australian Military Parachuting'

A brilliant collectors piece with a unique story!