RAD Mutzenabzeichen

[Gwar]

The Reichsarbeitsdienst Mutzenabzeichen with the swastika was formally introduced in Oct. 1933 and was to be worn by enlisted and lower ranks.
There were problems with the quality and pricing and some of the manufacturers began producing less than desirable pieces and unauthorized insignia not in accordance with the Reichsleitung specifications. This was certainly a problem and frowned upon, proclamations were made to curb this issue in an attempt to control the situation and have them constructed in accordance to the Reichszeugmeisterie standards. Of note; the RZM did not control the RAD in any way, and anything that is marked RZM concerning the Reichsarbeitsdienst is to be considered bogus. The official design of 1936 was forged using 1.55mm thick sheet aluminum, it had two wheat shafts branching upwards from the bottom of the spade handle, in the center was an upright spade in the coat of arms form, with a canted swastika in the center. The inner spade and swastika was pebbled. There were two prongs on the reverse for attachment. The bordered edge was painted red and the inner field of the swastika was painted black. The reverse of the insignia should have the makers marks or logo or in some instances both, the year of manufacture and a triangle pointing down with the letters RLAD which stands for 'Reichsleitung des Arbeitsdienstes', the 'L' is positioned backwards, it is often mistaken for a 'J' but that is a false assumption, near the tip of the triangle is 'GES-GESCH'. There were many different makers of this badge and just as many variants. Later we will discuss the other orders concerning enlisted ranks and officer ranks insignia including the enamel, woven and hand embroidered versions. 

Diagram / Information credit Wim.P.B.R. Saris

 

 

[Gwar]

[Salvage Sailor]

Very nice information on the RAD insignia, thanks for starting this topic

 

Sterbebild of one of my Bavarian Cousins serving as a Vormann in the RAD (Reichsarbeitsdienst - Reich Labor Service) wearing the Mutzenabzeichen

[Gwar]

Salvage Sailor, thanks for taking the time to read the post and respond, do you happen to know what Abt. he was with ?

[Salvage Sailor]

No, I don't know which RAD Abetilung he was with and this is the only information I have on his service.

Full Sterbebild below

[packratt713]

Gwar Thanks so much for sharing.