History

The Technische Nothilfe (Technical Emergency Help), often abbreviated to TN or TeNo, was founded on September 30, 1919. Its stated purpose was to maintain vital infrastructure and facilities, and protect them during a time of economical and political turmoil. When the economy improved and political tensions became less pronounced during the mid to late 1920s, the TeNo was able to shift its focus to disaster relief, roadside assistance, and general civil defence, including civil air protection. In 1936, the organisation came under the control of the German police as an auxiliary force of the Ordnungspolizei (Order Police). During the war, TeNo units were deployed to virtually all occupied countries and front lines for technical support.

Sidearms were introduced in November 1938. All blades were manufactured by the company Carl Eickhorn from Solingen. On every blade’s reverse is a TN inspection mark, and a serial number on the blade’s obverse as well as the throat of the scabbard.

The Leaders Dagger was worn by ranks Zugführer and above. It is 420mm in length. It shows the TN national emblem on the crossguard and cogwheel on the pommel. The colour of the plastic grip varies from orange to white.

The dagger came with a 230mm silver-coloured portepee. It was worn suspended by black leather hangers for the service uniform. The hangers for the dress uniform have two gold-coloured stripes and fittings for Chef der TN and Landesführer, all other ranks wore silver-coloured stripes and fittings with an old silver finish.