Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a very nice example of German WWII "Service" armband, worn to indicate that the wearers were taking part in work or service that was not always related to their chosen branch. We often see these in unissued condition without any additional markings, however this example has some great wear from service and a lovely depot stamp!

This yellow Deutsche Wehrmacht armband was worn by uniformed German personnel, who were attached to the Armed Forces during WWII. Often, these were worn by men of the Reichsarbeitsdienst and Reichsbahn who were operating with the German Army in the occupied countries. It has a textbook machine woven insignia in black on a yellow cotton background, and measures approximately 14" x 4 1/8", sewn together in the back with a French seam. It has some nice worked in dirt on the exterior surface, and the upper right has a clear round WEHRBEZIRKSKOMMANDO ISERLOHN (Iserlohn Military District Command) stamp surrounding a Weimar style eagle, indicating that it was issued in that city.

A great example, ready to add to your armband collection and display!

Nearly every military, civil, political and paramilitary organization in existence during the Third Reich used armbands. Armbands were worn on military and civilian uniforms and also on civilian clothes, from suit jackets to work clothing. They were used to denote membership in organizations, to indicate a specific role or function of the bearer, and as insignia of rank. Many organizations would change the design of their armbands over time, which added to the variety produced. These were manufactured in countless variations, ranging from simple printed bands to elaborately hand-embroidered pieces of the highest quality. Some NSDAP armbands were worn by all members of large organizations and were made by the millions. Others were intended for use at a specific time and place and were unique. Many types were made in very 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.