RAD photo

[jwh44]

Hello

I recently got this photo of theses RAD men. What is the unit emblem painted on the truck door. It does'nt seem to be a RAD marking ?
Regards
Alain

[feldpost 58]

Hi Alain,

The vehicle marking is exactly the same as the RAD steel helmet decal, and below it is a unit number.
I have not got the relevant reference book to hand at the moment, but I think I may be able to give you the unit location over the next few days.
I will get back to you when I have checked my books.

Best wishes,

John.

[jwh44]

Thanks john for your help.
Regards
Alain

[feldpost 58]

Hi Alain,

Just been checking through the book "Labor Organizations Of the Third Reich" by J.R. Angolia and David Littlejohn, and found this information.
The truck bears the unit number "XXXI 10", which is the Roman numeral for an RAD "Arbeitsgau"; (work district) which usually has a specific geographical area name.
This one however, being larger than most; is the only unit not designated a specific regional designation!
Members of this unit were the nucleus of RAD Groups for all over Germany which were employed by the Wehrmacht to work on the Siegfried Line, and their headquarters were in Karlsruhe.
The "10" I believe refers to the "Gruppe" of this particular unit. Whilst most Arbeitsgau had 6-8 Gruppe, this unit being so large would probably have more.
Hope this information is of some help.

Best wishes,

john.

[jwh44]

Hi John

Thanks a lot for this detailed information.
Regards
Alain

[feldpost 58]

Hi Alain,

My pleasure, glad I could help a fellow member with some information; not too often am I able to assist someone on the forum

Best wishes,

John.