History

The RAD (Reichsarbeitsdienst = Reich Labour Service) was officially established on June 26, 1935 as the sole, and compulsory, labour service of Germany. Its purposes were to help the economy, curb unemployment, and indoctrinate its members with the NSDAP ideology, as well as play its part in militarising the German population.

The FAD (Freiwilliger Arbeitsdienst = Voluntary Labour Service) was the precursor of the RAD in the early 1930s. Official uniform regulations were first introduced on October 1, 1933, with modifications made in July 1934. It is also known as NSAD (Nationalsozialistischer Arbeitsdienst = National Socialist Labour Service).

The earliest uniforms were a not entirely successful attempt at standardisation. They gave way to a second wave of FAD uniforms that, when the RAD was established, experienced no significant changes.

The Greatcoat was worn by all ranks during the winter months. It was made from earth-brown cloth. The quality of the material was superior for the higher ranks. The coat is double-breasted with two rows of six buttons each. Oberarbeitsführer had dark brown lapels, while Generalarbeitsführer and above had black lapels. There are two internal slash side pockets. EM (Enlisted Men) ranks have straight-edged unsecured flaps, while Officer ranks have angular flaps. Officers also have turn-up cuffs.

There are different varieties, like a waterproof version, one made of leather and only worn by Officers, and a fur variety for sentry or driving duty.