Czech Car Association AMK Motor Racing Winning Chequered Flag Svazarm Pin Badge

The text reads 'AMK Svazarm'. The AMK are the Auto Moto Klub, the society for car owners, like the AAA or AA (UK). But in the 1960's the AMK was under military control, specifically that of the Svazarm. This badge was awarded to members of the AMK. The badge picture features a chequered flag within an old fashioned steering wheel.

Historical Background

The svazarm were formed in 1951 in former Czechoslovakia to train the population in military based disciplines. The svazarm was a copy of the Soviet DOSAAF paramilitary group.

The activities the Svazarm provided were extremely diverse, ranging from medical training to dog training. Dog lovers would be instructed in the training and breeding of dogs suitable for military purposes, especially German Shepherds. Shortwave radio operation was another popular activity, and was also useful for creating future radio operators in the army.

A more specialised branch of the Svazarm, based at Košice, trained pilots for the air force. Training included at least twenty flight hours of glider training and forty hours of basic training on motorised aeroplanes, as well as the necessary aviation theory. There ware also sections: Model airplanes and gliding (formally DOSLET), motor sport section (motorcycles and cars) and all sort of shooting sports. (rifle, pistol)