WWII Luftwaffe drogue parachute

A first class example of a Luftwaffe drogue parachute or in the local vernacular "Hilfsschirm" or "help parachute" that would originally have been contained in either a pilot's seat or back pack type 'chute. Made of silk the diameter of the canopy is about 24" (61 cm) and retains all its original cords as shown. The end loop would have originally been attached to the top of the main canopy by a short length of cable and when the D ring was pulled would have exited first from the pack and be opened by the folded spring frame inside and so ensure the full canopy deploys with all possible speed. The edge of the drogue is fully stamped with a very crisp Luftwaffe eagle and below 2. Sturzkampfgruppen Kommando. Our research indicates this refers to a dive bomber Group, so could well relate to use by JU 87 Stuka aircrew. Alongside is a crisp 'BA 1761' stamp applied by the quality control department in the factory and standing for 'Betriebs Aufsicht' and below a clear production date of 11 July 1942. Adjoining this is a further stamp reading 315585 which is probably the production werk number. The canopy remains in good original condition with just minor age related marks but no damage. The spring mechanism still functions exactly as intended and all the lines are intact although the cable attachment is absent. Now becoming a scarce item and the perfect size to display withing a collection.