Begleitkommando-SS

Begleitkommando-SS were elite SS bodyguards created to provide close security protection for high-ranking members of the Nazi Party and visiting state dignitories.

Formation
The Begleitkommando-SS was formed in 1932 to provide general protection to Adolf Hitler and other party functionaries. A smaller eight-man team called the SS-Begleitkommando des Führers protected Hitler as he travelled around Germany. The Begleitkommando-SS, which cooperated with other agencies providing security, such as the Ordnungspolizei and Gestapo, handled all inner security requirements whereas outer protection was handled by general SS units.

In 1934 the Führerschutzkommando replaced the Begleitkommando for protection throughout Germany. The entire group then became part of the Reichssicherheitsdienst (Reich Security Service) or RSD on August 1, 1935.

Commanders

 * Bodo Gelzeleuchter 	(1932 - 1933)
 * SS-Sturmhauptführer Willy Herzberger (1933)
 * SS-Sturmführer Kurt Gildisch 	(1933 - 1934)
 * SS-Obersturmführer Bruno Gesche 	(1934 - 1945)
 * SS-Untersturmführer Franz Schädle 	(1945)