Original German WWII Civilian in Wehrmacht Service Armband with DAF Labor Front Stamp Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The Army Mobilization Order of March 12th 1937, introduced a wide variety of ärmelbinden (armbands), which were worn to identify personnel performing specific duties or functions for the Wehrmacht (German Armed Forces). Most of the armbands were worn on the upper left sleeve of uniformed or non-uniformed personnel and were worn only while the individual was performing the specific duty or function identified by the armband. As the war progressed it was deemed that additional armbands were necessary to identify the growing sector of non-uniformed, non-German civilian personnel serving in a military capacity with any branch of the armed forces. As a result assorted identifying armbands were introduced as required.

The Im Dienst der Deutschen Wehrmacht (In Service of the German Armed Forces) ärmelbind (armband) was introduced on October 1st 1941 for use by non-German civilians serving the Armed Forces and Russian Auxiliaries when not in uniform. Additionally, this example is stamped with the DAF (German Labor Front) insignia, possibly indicating that the civilian was a member of that group.

It measures approximately 15″ x 4″, and is sewn together in the back. There is overall age toning and light staining, which has made the armband look almost beige now. It does not look to have been attached to a uniform or sleeve, however it does look to have been hung on a display board with pins at the four corners for a while.

In lovely condition, ready to display!

With the dissolution of all Free Trade Unions in Germany in May 1933 the Deutsche Arbeitsfront, (German Labor Front or DAF ), was established to replace the unions and to educate the workers in industry and commerce for smooth and efficient operation of all labor in the Third Reich. In October 1934 the DAF was given official status as a sub-section of the NSDAP and in March 1936 it was recognized as an independent NSDAP affiliated association and granted control of its own monetary budget. With this money it was able to procure it’s own signs and other insignia.