SMGP-0817 Luftschutz Sicherheits und Hilfsdienst Officer Tabs “SHD” (Security and Assistance Service)

A rare set of boards in Mint condition.

Posted by Paul in Gentlemen’s Military Interest forum:

“The SHD was established around the beginning of the war. Its role was to help in the aftermath of an air raid, with the rescue of persons and when possible, property. It was also tasked with ensuring security and guidance during air raids. Due to manpower shortages, the ranks were filled with “draftees”. Members were exempted from military service yet not allowed to hold other employment. SHD units were housed in barracks, with a rotation that allowed half of the unit’s personnel to be at home, if the situation allowed. Specific duties included firefighting, rubble clearance, urban search and rescue, building stabilization, medical services, and the procurement and delivery of supplies.

Motorized SHD battalions were established on 25November1939. Members were transferred in from the police and fire police to fill the ranks. On 10Mar1942, the motorized SHD Battalions were transferred to the Luftwaffe and re-designated the motorized Air Protection Battalions. They fell under the Luftwaffe Construction Branch. At this point, these former SHD members had found themselves with full soldier status within the ranks of the Luftwaffe(I bet they were surprised). These men had the Black Waffenfarbe and had the letters “LS” on the should boards and straps. Officers used the gold metal cyphers, NCOs used the silver toned cyphers, and enlisted had the “LS” embroidered using black thread, outlined in white.

Cities and towns were given a classification based upon the degree of risk of being assaulted, but this was abolished in 1943. Rankings became that of the regular Luftwaffe.

On the 19th of March 1942, the non motorized SHD was transferred to the Police reserve and renamed the Air Protection Police. This new organization fell under the control of the Police.”