German Red Cross Enlisted Ranks Member Sleeve Eagle Insignia
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 70.GOR.03.02.03.003.000
Estimated market value:
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Constructed of black cotton, the obverse bearing a white machine-embroidered triangular border, with a central DRK-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, above an inscription of “SAARLAUTERN 1”, unmarked, measuring 120 mm (w) x 65 mm (h), in near extremely fine condition.
Following the First World War, the German Red Cross (Deutsches Rotes Kreuz, DRK) was threatened in its existence by the Treaty of Versailles, since the organisation was mainly focused on preparing its members for war and military-related medical service. This resulted in the DRK switching focus to social welfare activities during the time of the Weimar Republic.
The stipulations enforced by the Treaty of Versailles were declared null and void following the NSDAP’s consolidation of power in 1933. The new Reich Minister of the Interior, Wilhelm Frick, an NSDAP member, ensured that the DRK would be ready to support all of the Third Reich’s future military affairs and political ideologies. In 1938, the DRK was merged with the Ministry of the Interior’s Social Welfare Organisation, officially becoming an organisation under NSDAP oversight. The DRK also had ties to the SS, mainly due to high-ranking medical professionals serving in both organisations simultaneously.
The design of the Third Reich DRK insignia was initially based upon the uniforms used during the First World War and the Weimar Republic, but substantial uniform changes were implemented in September 1935.
The DRK Member Sleeve Eagle Insignia was introduced in 1938. It was worn by salaried DRK members only. The insignia features a national eagle emblem on a triangular grey cloth backing, which measures 105x55mm. The eagle has angled down-turned wings and sits on a wreath with a mobile swastika inside. Underneath the eagle, the insignia features the wearer’s assignment location. It was worn on the upper right sleeve of the tunic and greatcoat.
The Officer version was made with hand-embroidered aluminum wire. It features a double border, the inner one being smaller than the outer one.
The Enlisted Ranks version was made of machine-woven silver-grey thread with a single outer border.
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