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.

The TN National Eagle Sleeve Emblem was introduced on January 25, 1935. It replaced the TN Arm Badge. Like the former, it was worn on the upper left sleeve, corresponding with the flap of the left breast pocket. The eagle’s head faces to the viewer's left, its wingspan is 75mm. It was either machine-woven or hand-embroidered on a navy blue patch.

The Chef der TN wore a version made from gold-coloured wire. All other ranks wore an aluminum wire version, although enlisted ranks could also wear one made of white thread on a black patch.

The version worn on the Work Jacket is off-white on a tan-coloured patch.