History

The Pioneer of Labour Badge was instituted by Adolf Hitler on August 7, 1940, and was awarded for outstanding effort and achievements in the social and economic sphere.

The awards were conferred biannually on Labour Day (May 1st) and at the Nürnberg Party Rally, which occurred in late autumn. The awards simultaneously made these events seem more important, while also bonding the participants.

The first award was conferred on August 13th, 1940, and was awarded to Gustav Krupp von Bohlen and Halbach, the head of Friedrich Krupp AG, a munitions firm. Other recipients include Ferdinand Porsche and Walter Funk, the Minister of Economic Affair.

Award recommendations were made by the Leader of the German Labour Front, Dr. Robert Ley.

The badge was designed by Professor Klein.