This is an authentic standard issue Nazi Germany Deutscher Volkssturm Wehrmacht (German People's Militia) armband that was worn by members of the newly created civilian militia units during the final months of World War II, activated as a result of the significant defeats of the Wehrmacht in 1944.
The Deutscher Volkssturm Wehrmacht was established on 25 September 1944 & composed of males between the ages of 16 & 60 (often lacking proper training & equipment), who were not already serving in the Wehrmacht (Armed Forces). It was established as part of the Nazi's "total war" effort in a last & final effort to supplement the Wehrmacht in securing rear areas & defend German cities from the allies. They fell under the auspices of the Nazi Party w/Heinrich Himmler as commander. Wehrmacht on the armband was meant to signify its association with the German Armed Forces.
Description:
The armband features the words "Deutscher Volkssturm Wehrmacht" and the Nazi eagle & swastika. Printed on thin fabric w/diagonal weave. The two eagles do not face each other, the most common original configuration encountered (there were many variations).
The necessity of the armbands drove construction by quantity (vs quality) so the ends were left unsewn & completed when fitted to the uniform.
This is a well used version with visible age & use wear throughout but is in solid physical condition.
Intriguing Note:
The armband's interior has an interesting "post-construction", hand-made DRK (German Red Cross) logo. One could presume varying theories; possibly re-purposed for the DRK or, the wearer reversed the armband in an attempt to avoid attack by his enemy?
History:
Nearly all Third Reich organizations (military & civilian) used armbands to signify membership of an organization, indicate a specific role or function of the bearer, and/or as insignia of rank. They were worn on military and civilian uniforms & clothes.
Many organizations changed their designs over time, increasing variations, from simple printed bands to elaborately hand-embroidered pieces of high quality. Production numbers varied based on intended usage as some were worn by all members of the organizations & could have been produced by the millions. Others were intended for use at a specific time and place, making them unique & possibly rare as they were produced in limited numbers. Some bore metal insignia or special identifiers that indicated the wearer's rank, unit affiliation, or nationality. Armbands were sometimes but not always marked with ink stamps by the issuing authorities.
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WW2 (Nazi Germany) - Authentic
Deutscher Volkssturm Wehrmacht Arm Band
$138.00 (Firm)
Introduced on 25 September 1944.
Worn by members of the newly created
civilian militia units during the final
months of World War II
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