SS 4 Year Long Service Award

German WWII > Awards and Medals > Army and SS Awards > SS Long Service Awards

Type II - SS-Dienstauszeichnung 4. Stufe für 4 Jähre. Instituted January 30, 1938, the IV stage - 4-year SS Long Service Award was awarded to all members of the SS who completed 4 years of faithful and impeccable service. Time in the Wehrmacht, the state police and periods in previously recognized voluntary organizations (Freikorps) were also used to calculate the length of service. It is constructed of a die stamped bronze base that has been chemically blackened. The round shaped obverse features two centrally placed SS runes that are surrounded by an oak leaf and acorn wreath that is tied together at the bottom and all lies on a pebbled background. The reverse reads: “Für Treue Dienste in der SS” (For Loyal Service in the SS) and is in front of a “4” and all lies on a pebbled field. The top features the proper soldered-on loop and tear drop (slightly bent) suspension ring. Accompanying the award is 9 ½ inches of cornflower blue rayon ribbon. Attached to the ribbon is an oxidized pin, hinge and catch assembly. It measures 1 ½ inches in diameter. Purchased from the veteran’s son.