Decal Description

Helmets worn by Hitler Youth members serving with the Air Raid Warning Service (Luftschutz Warndienst) and also with Luftwaffe anti-aircraft units wore helmets that were modified by the addition of the Hitler Youth diamond insignia.  The insignia took the form of a full color decal which was placed on one or both sides of the helmet.  No apparent regulations were issued for the placement of the Hitler Youth decal which accounts for a small number of variations in overall decal placement.  In addition, a larger version of the same insignia centered on a black shield was also produced in limited numbers.  The shield type insignia was most often used on gladiator style helmets rather than those designated as combat helmets.  It should be noted that on rare occasions the Hitler Youth diamond insignia was hand painted in full color¹ on both anti-aircraft and Air Raid Warning Service helmets.

Notes:

¹Collectors should be aware that Hitler Youth decals of all types have been extensively reproduced over the last ten to twenty years.  These are often placed on original or repainted helmets and are intended to defraud unsuspecting collectors.  This includes hand painted or stenciled versions of the diamond insignia which are easy to reproduce.

The HJ Diamond Decal

The HJ Diamond Shield Decal

The Combination HJ Diamond and Luftwaffe Eagle Decal

HJ Main

Helmet Types

Helmet Insignia

Period Photos

Volksstrum-Saurland