- Time Period: Nazi Germany (Interwars Period, World War II)
- Institution: 1941
- Country: Germany
The Hitler Youth Badge for Distinguished Foreigners (or Ehrenzeichen der Reichsjugendführung der Hitler-Jugend für Verdiente Ausländer in German) was a special honor authorized in 1941. This badge was specifically designed for non-German citizens who had shown significant support for the objectives and activities of the Hitler Youth (Hitler-Jugend).
The badge was intended to acknowledge and reward foreign individuals who contributed to the goals and spread of Nazi ideology through the Hitler Youth organization. These individuals played a role in fostering international support for the Nazi regime and its youth programs, promoting the values and principles of the Hitler Youth outside of Germany.
Instituted during the height of World War II, the badge served both as a diplomatic tool and a symbol of the Nazi Party’s international reach.
The Hitler Youth Badge for Foreigners Designs
The badge is an oval-shaped decoration made from gilt and enamel, reflecting its prestigious nature. The design features a spread eagle perched above the emblem of the Hitler Youth, which is centrally placed. Surrounding the central design is a brown enamel band with the inscription “Hitler Jugend,” signifying its association with the Hitler Youth.
Other Hitler Youth Badges
The variety of Hitler Youth badges arose from the organization’s desire to recognize different levels of achievement, service, and merit among its members. These included:
The Hitler Youth Proficiency Badge
The Hitler Youth Proficiency Badge was established to recognize members for proficiency in athletics, field craft, and political knowledge.
The Hitler Youth Shooting Badge
The Hitler Youth Shooting Badge was awarded in three grades to recognize proficiency in marksmanship within the Hitler Youth.
The Hitler Youth Leader’s Sports Badge
The Hitler Youth Leader’s Sports Badge was designed to recognize those in the Hitler Youth and Jungvolk who excelled in an annual fitness test.
The Hitler Youth Badge
The Hitler Youth Badge was a political award in Nazi Germany, given for various levels of service to the Hitler Youth (Hitler Jugend).