Genuine RAD (Reichsarbeitsdienst) Aluminium Belt Buckle and Leather Tab Dated 1938 by Manufacturer Dransfield & Co Menden. Sn 7607. Genuine RAD (Reichsarbeitsdienst) Aluminium Belt Buckle and Leather Tab Dated 1938 by Manufacturer Dransfield & Co Menden. Sn 7607. Antiques & Militaria

Founded officially in 1934, the RAD (Reichsarbeitsdienst) or Reich Labour Service was instituted as a "make-work program" to help alleviate the depression of Germany in 1934.On the 26th June 1935 service in the RAD became compulsory for men between ages of eighteen and twenty five, while service at seventeen was voluntary. Enlistment was initially for a period of six months, soon extended to twelve months; however during the course of war, service in the RAD was reduced to three months. The original target strength of the RAD was 900,000 men but this was never achieved. From figures for the period 1933 to 1936 it appears that the strength of the RAD was approximately 500,000 or 600,000 men each year. See Chapter Six of German Belt Buckles 1845-1945 by Peter Nash. In excellent condition showing all of its detail, the leather on the tab is excellent, as is the stitching. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 7607.