Description
This is an original WWI stretcher bearer’s armband, most likely of British or American origin, featuring a bold red “B” for Bearer stitched to the front, alongside a small affixed Christian cross.
During WWI, stretcher bearers played a crucial role in retrieving and evacuating the wounded from the battlefield under extreme danger. To identify their duty, they typically wore armbands marked “SB” for Stretcher Bearer. This example, however, is a rare variation marked only with a single “B”, making it highly unusual and collectible compared to the more common “SB” types.
Constructed of white cotton fabric, the armband shows a stitched red “B” and a metallic Christian cross attached to the cloth. It has visible staining and service wear, consistent with battlefield use, but remains intact and structurally sound.
