These wrist compasses, graduated in degrees, were issued to paratrooper troops for D-Day, the Allied landing in Normandy.
They were generally worn on the wrist, over or under the sleeve, but could also be attached to the soldier’s equipment or worn on the ankle over the boot. Unlike the compasses issued to ground forces, which were reserved for officers, these compasses were distributed to all paratroopers, both officers and enlisted men.
The history of this example, manufactured by the SUPERIOR MAGNETO CORP., USA, is not fully known. Originally fitted with a canvas strap, it now has a blue fabric strap, suggesting possible use by Portuguese paratrooper troops.
