Description
Physical description
Flag
Large rectangular flag with a red field, has a large white disc to centre edged with a narrow inner black border, which in turn is edged with a white border. Set on the white disc is a large black upright swastika and this is outlined with a narrow white line, and then a slightly broader black border to the edges of the arms. The ends of arms of the swastika are not cut at right angles, but follow the line of the circumference of the black circle. Set in the upper left portion of the flag is an eagle & swastika in white, edged in black, with the eagle's head facing toward the hoist. There are three white canvas loops sewn to the hoist edge, permitting the flag to be suspended, probably vertically, in as much the same way as a banner does.
Label
The Reichsdienstflagge (Reich Service Flag) was used from 7 November 1935, replaced the former Government Authoties Flag and all state and provincial flags. Flown from public service buildings, the German state railways, the Reichsautobahn and Reichsbank authorities, smaller version was also permitted for display on service vehicles. Additionally certain vessels of the Kriegsmarine were authorised to fly this flag if they were excluded the right to fly the conventional Reichskriegsflagge ensign.
This very large example was removed from a building by Private William Thornhill who served with the Support Company (mortars) of 8th Battalion, Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders.
History note
The Reichsdienstflagge (Reich Service Flag) was used from 7 November 1935, replaced the former Government Authorities Flag and all state and provincial flags. Flown from public service buildings, the German state railways, the Reichsautobahn and Reichsbank authorities, smaller version was also permitted for display on service vehicles. Additionally certain vessels of the Kriegsmarine were authorised to fly this flag if they were excluded the right to fly the conventional Reichskriegsflagge ensign.
This very large example was removed from a building by Private William Thornhill who served with the Support Company (mortars) of 8th Battalion, Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders.