A Rare Reichsarbeitsdienst Female Unit 106 (Niederschlesien) Car Pennant

This is a rare and extremely well preserved Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reichs Labour Service) car pennant belonging to the all-female Unit 106 of Niederschlesien. The isosceles triangle car pendant is constructed of thick olive-green wool and features a circular RAD insignia consisting of a black embroidered swastika, with two outward-facing wheat stalks, on a white backer. The pennant also has a national eagle in white embroidery, with black threaded outlines on a black backer, and number patches “106” sewn onto the pennant with white threading. The pennant is open on the base of the triangle where it was once attached to a vehicle. It measures 296 mm x 192 mm and is in extremely fine condition, without major flaws or significant signs of age.

Footnote: The Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reich Labour Service) was established during the Third Reich period to help lessen the impact of unemployment within the weakened German economy. It also served to militarize the workforce, while also indoctrinating the National Socialist ideology in its workers. From June 1935 onwards, men between the ages of 18 and 25 had to serve in the Rad for a total of six months before becoming eligible for military service. Women were also subject to compulsory service. The RAD provided an array of construction and manual work services throughout Germany. High ranking leaders were permitted to display car pennants, such as this one, on their vehicles.