The Minesweepers, Sub-chasers and Escort vessel badge (Kriegsabzeichen für Minensuch-, Ubootsjagd- und Sicherungsverbände) better know as the Minesweepers badge (Minesuch abzeichen) was instituted on 31-08-1940 by the Commander in Chief of the Kriegsmarine (German Navy) Grossadmiral (Grand Admiral) Erich Raeder. He directed Otto Placzek to create a special badge for the mine sweepers of the Kriegsmarine. This in order to reward the sailors and officers of the Kriegsmarine and the Merchant Marine employed in its service. After 1943, this award was also conferred upon members of the Luftwaffe Marine-Sicherungs-Verbände.
