Re: Help / Advice needed on my Large White Ensign (9ft 2in x 4ft 7in)
The numbers look like part of the NATO Stock Number (NSN) which all equipment used by NATO members have.
It is a 13 digit code laid out as XXXX-XX-XXX-XXXX. The first four numbers being type of kit, second pair country identifier, next seven the actual part number. In the UK quite often just the last 7 are shown on the item of equipment itself. Sometimes there is a series of letters and numbers before the start of the actual NSN.
An example I have to hand (so to speak), my Gloves Combat MkII are NSN CM/8415-99-978-3713. The 99 signifying UK
After a very quick search along my theory i found this which is a current NSN (it does not mean the ensign you have is new though just that that NSN is still in use for RN Ensigns)
RN Ensign NSN 8345-99-571-3291
Further examples of NSN's and description
NSN 8345-99-125-1126
FLAG,NATIONAL:UNITED KINGDOM;1220MM LG;610MM WD;CROSS MIDDLE DESIGN;FITTED WITH PLAIN & SWIVEL INGLEFIELD CLIPS;ROYAL BLUE,WHITE & RED.
NSN 8345-99-125-1117
RAF Ensign, 92X184 cm
The arrow as stated is the typical British Government Property Crowsfoot
The boxed number on many items of kit is usually the packer/checker ID number, not always though.
Last edited by leccy; 12-10-2011 at 06:32 AM.
'Amazon' Bridge
Construction dates: 12/13 May 1944 (Operation Diadem)
Details: 80 ft Class 30 Bailey bridge built over Rapido river under constant fire.
The bridge was built as part of the Allies break-out of the Gustav Line.
Work started at 5.45pm (12 May) and completed at 5.30am (13 May).
The human cost was high; 15 sappers were killed and 57 (including 3 officers) wounded.
Constructed by: 7th, 59th, 225th Field Companies (4th Division)
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