History

Lanyards in the Hitler Youth were introduced in 1933. Lanyards for the BDM were introduced in a regulation from August 10, 1933. Lanyards for the JM (Jungmädel = Young Girls) were introduced on October 30, 1933. They initially indicated both grade and function. After 1936, rank and duty position could differ.

Lanyards were generally worn from the left shoulder to the left breast pocket. 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.

Mädelschaftsführerinnen and Jungmädelschaftsführerinnen wore a red and white lanyard. Regulations stated it was to be knotted into a loop at each end and should have a metal carbine hook at one end.

Mädelschaftsführerinnen and Jungmädelschaftsführerinnen wore their lanyard in a different way than all other ranks. It was worn from the button of the left breast pocket to the third button on the front of the shirt. This was the button at around the same height as the breast pocket.

Originally, Mädelschaftsführerinnen and Jungmädelschaftsführerinnen wore a lanyard in their “Landesfarben” (state colours). This was changed to a lanyard in Oberbann (a district system) colour in a regulation from September 15, 1933. In 1936, with the discontinuing of the Oberbann colours, the red and white lanyard was introduced.

Jungenschaftsführer and Oberjungenschaftsführer in the DJ (Deutsches Jungvolk, German Youngsters) and Kameradschaftsführer and Oberkameradschaftsführer in the HJ wore an identical lanyard.