BACKGROUND: The female version of the male RAD, Reichsarbeitsdienst, (National Labor Service), was originally established in February 1933 and was considered a sub-section of the National Sozialistches Frauenschaft, (National Socialist Women’s Organization). In April 1936 the female labor service was dissociated with the NS Frauenschaft and was given the official designation, RADwJ, Reichsarbeitsdienst der weiblichen Jugend, (National Labor Service for Young females). The RADwJ was originally a voluntary organization in spite of regulations of June 26TH 1935 that dictated a six month mandatory service period. Actual conscription of RADwJ personnel began in August 1936 but it wasn’t until September 1939 that the mandatory six months service was enforced. In July 1941 the RADwJ War Helper’s Service badge was instituted for award to RADwJ personnel who had fulfilled their six month mandatory RADwJ service and volunteered for a further six months service to assist in the war effort. These volunteers were employed in a wide variety of jobs replacing the civilian male employees and enabling them to join the armed forces.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Stamped, solid backed, zinc badge, features a central canted swastika flanked by diagonally angled sheaves of wheat (some oxidization) with a superimposed banner with embossed initials, "RADwj", to the bottom. The badge shows nice detailing including cut-outs to the arms of the swastika. The reverse has a small soldered hinge a round horizontal pin and catch. The RADwJ War Helper’s Service badge was worn on the left lapel by all eligible personnel.