A fine original WWII German Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD) Athletic Patch. This patch shows signs of use and was likely removed from an athletic uniform following WWII. In very good condition overall, and marked with the traditional "Ges. Gesch" which is visible on the photo of the reverse, due to folds in the insignia.
The Reich Labour Service (Reichsarbeitsdienst; RAD) was a major paramilitary organization established in Nazi Germany as an agency to help mitigate the effects of unemployment on the German economy, militarise the workforce and indoctrinate it with Nazi ideology. It was the official state labour service, divided into separate sections for men and women.
From June 1935 onward, men aged between 18 and 25 may have served six months before their military service. During World War II, compulsory service also included young women and the RAD developed to an auxiliary formation which provided support for the Wehrmacht armed forces.
