German Order Service (Ordnungsdienst) Badge, May 1940
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Title: German Order Service (Ordnungsdienst) Badge, May 1940
Description: This German Ordnungsdienst badge from World War II is a distinctive piece of wartime memorabilia, representative of the complex history of the period. Made of cast aluminum, the badge measures 2"x2". Its design prominently features a German Jewish Star on the front with the letters "JRWRZW" at each point. The reverse side bears the mark "RMZ 05/10."
Product Details:
- Material: Cast Aluminum
- Dimensions: 2"x2"
- Front Detail: German Jewish Star with letters "JRWRZW"
- Reverse Marking: RMZ 05/10
- Manufacture Date: May 1940
Brief History:
The "Ordnungsdienst," which translates to "Order Service" in English, played a unique role during World War II. As the Nazi regime took control over vast territories in Europe, it implemented various means to manage the populations, especially within Jewish ghettos. In many of these ghettos, the Nazis compelled the local Jewish councils (Judenräte) to create the Ordnungsdienst, often informally referred to as the "Jewish Police."
These units, comprised mainly of Jewish members from within the ghetto, had the responsibility of maintaining internal order. Unfortunately, in several instances, they were also forced to assist with deportations to extermination camps.
The RMZ marking indicates the badge's connection to the Reichszeugmeisterei, the main equipment office of the Nazi Party. Responsible for production and distribution of many Nazi-related materials, from uniforms to flags, the Reichszeugmeisterei played an essential role in the propagation of Nazi symbolism and propaganda.
This badge, with its May 1940 production date, comes from a period when the Nazis were expanding their territorial gains and consolidating their rule. Its existence serves as a reminder of the difficult choices many had to make under the oppressive Nazi regime and the complex history of collaboration and resistance during the Holocaust.