Steel Helmet Association, Military Sport Cross, Number 288.

Tombak/brass based and in a very good, slightly worn condition with all of the silver plate still present and some patina, the enamel without damage.
Marked on the reverse with the award number „288“ and the German patent mark „Ges. Gesch.“ (Gestzlich Geschützt).
Very difficult to find and seldom awarded badge.

The Wehrsportkreuz was instituted during the 11th Reichsfrontsoldatentag of the Stahlhelmbund, on 4th / 5th October 1930 in Koblenz. A
It was given for achievements in the field of military sport. Three exams had to be taken. The men had to be at least 18 years old. For men under 35 years of age, the time until repetition was initially limited to five years. After that, the main test had to be taken again. The first test, the preliminary test, consisted of a swimming test. The 2nd test, general proficiency test, consisted of small-caliber shooting, a certificate of proficiency in command control, map reading and distance estimations. The 3rd exam, the main military sport exam, should be taken within 5 hours. The content was an forced march, on foot, on horseback or bike. Achievements in small-caliber shooting, overcoming the obstacle course and throwing hand grenades. The exams were held by representatives of two different local groups. The awardee received a large decorative certificate confirming the award of the military sports cross. The award number is engraved on the back of the cross. The first awards took place in May 1931. The manufacturer of the military sports crosses was the J.C. Gante badge factory in Berlin. Approximately 1,000 crosses were awarded.