WW2 German Zeltbahn with RAD Camp Markings

Up for sale is an authentic World War II era German Zeltbahn — a triangular shelter half used by German forces as a poncho, field shelter, or combined with others to form tents. This example is pre-war/early war, made by the original manufacturer Warei Patentzelte, Berlin, whose mark appears clearly on the canvas. The material shows wear consistent with service use, but remains solid and structurally intact, making it a standout piece for any serious collector.

What makes this item particularly special are the original Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD) stamps inside the fabric:

• A clear RAD stamp with the designation 4/143 — indicating the RAD Abteilung (detachment) and group assignment.
• A date of 1937, placing this well before the outbreak of full-scale combat, within the period when RAD service was compulsory for young German men.
• These markings provide rare provenance, tying the canvas to the Reich Labour Service rather than regular Wehrmacht units — a less common subtype for collectors.

The RAD served as a state labor corps in Nazi Germany from 1935–1945. Members performed major public works (e.g., land reclamation, forestry, drainage) and later supported military projects as an auxiliary force.

What Does “4/143” Mean?

RAD unit designations like 4/143 reflect sub-units within a larger RAD Group (Gruppe 143). According to period RAD records:

• RAD-Gruppe 143 was based in the Merseburg region (in central Germany, near Halle/Saale).
• Abteilung 4/143 was specifically known as “Burggraf Dietrich von Altenburg” stationed at Zöschen, a village south of Halle.

This means your Zeltbahn likely belonged to men serving at or near Zöschen in the Province of Saxony, well before the major wartime mobilization. This kind of unit marking is far more specific than the typical generic RAD code seen on many other textiles.

Historical Context

The Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD) was the official National Labour Service of Nazi Germany. Initially instituted to reduce unemployment and provide state-organized work projects, it became compulsory for young men (and later women) before military service. These labour units were organized into districts (Arbeitsgau), groups (Gruppe), and detachments (Abteilung), each numbered and often linked to specific towns or regional assignments.

RAD personnel were equipped with standard Zeltbahnen just like the army, but items with clear RAD unit provenance— especially early pre-war stamped and dated examples — are scarce and highly collectible.

Condition Summary

• Original canvas with age-appropriate patina
• Faded but visible maker and RAD stamps
• No major tears; service wear expected and consistent
• A unique piece linking a field item to a specific RAD unit and location