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 trousers worn by the TN are dark blue. Straight trousers were worn with the walking-out uniform.

On April 1, 1940 a field-grey version was introduced. It was worn by the Special Employment Sections (besondere Einsatztrupps) operating outside Germany with the field-grey dress uniform.

The field-grey trousers were gradually phased out with the introduction of the green Schutzpolizei (order police) uniform for TN members, introduced on September 29, 1942. Additionally, ranks of Wachtmeister der TN and above wore black piping on their green trousers.

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