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 Work Jacket was introduced on December 1, 1936. It was made of natural-coloured greyish linen. It is single-breasted with a five button front closure. It has a turn-down collar and gathered sleeves. There are two breast pockets with double buttoned flaps. The buttons are normally blue, but white ones are also known to have been used.

Later, other colours were introduced as well, for example the reed-green or the dark blue herringbone twill jackets.