History

In March of 1933, the SS-Wachverbände (SS-Guard Units) were instituted to administer the concentration camps of the Third Reich. In 1936, the administrative and guard units of the SS-Wachverbände were re-designated as the SS-Totenkopfverbände (SS-TV).

Members of the SS-TV originally wore the black M32 uniform, but it proved to be impractical for work in a camp. In 1935, an earth-brown uniform was introduced for SS-TV personnel to wear while on active duty. The uniform was not worn by camp sentries as they stood by the main gate and were visible to the public. The uniform was also not considered appropriate as walking-out attire.

In 1937, SS-Totenkopfverbände personnel were beginning to be issued the M37 field-grey uniform, and by 1940, all concentration camp guards had at least one field-grey uniforms. The M37 field-grey uniform that was worn by SS-TV personnel was identical to uniform worn by Waffen-SS personnel. For more information regarding this uniform refer to the Waffen-SS section.