Members of the Hitler Youth Flak Helpers (HJ-Flakhelferen) were volunteers who assisted in providing a variety of air defense related duties in conjunction with the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) and Air Raid Warning Service (Luftschutz Warndienst).  In these roles Hitler Youth members served as signalers, observers, ammunition carriers, and special messengers.  When serving with Luftwaffe anti-aircraft units, members were often employed as gunners, search light operators, and ammunition loaders.  Serving in these roles required the use of adequate head protection and many Hitler Youth members were issued a variety of helmets to accommodate.  When serving with the Air Raid Warning Service, most members were issued standard one, two, and three piece gladiator style helmets.  If employed in anti-aircraft duties, some members were issued Luftwaffe helmets (M1940 and M1942 models).  In many cases both the gladiator and combat model helmets used by the Hitler Youth were modified by the addition of a small Hitler Youth diamond insignia.