History

Lanyards in the Hitler Youth were introduced in 1933. They initially indicated both grade and function. After 1936, rank and duty position could differ. Shoulder straps were used to indicate rank, while lanyards indicated duty position. It was a common occurrence, especially during the war, for a member to wear the lanyard of a higher rank, as they assumed the duty position without having been promoted to that rank.

Lanyards were generally worn from the left shoulder to the left breast pocket. However, since members of the DJ (Deutsches Jungvolk, German Youngsters) didn’t wear a shoulder strap on the left shoulder, a button had to be added so that the lanyards could be attached.

Specifications prior to 1936 are unknown. However, starting in 1936, lanyards were made from intertwined coloured cords, with 35 loops.

The attributes of individual lanyards will vary due to manufacturing.

Obergebietsjungvolkführer wore a black and silver lanyard. So did Obergebietsführer of the HJ and Gauverbandsführerinnen of the BDM.