11 The Party Uniforms and Militia

A week later, February 8th, 1946.

Ever since becoming the leader of the party, Ernest took office at Weber's old office. The room had been swiftly rearranged to reflect his preferences. A large wooden desk now faced the window, offering a view of the bustling city below. On the walls, newly framed photographs of key moments in the party's history replaced the generic artwork that once hung there. 

And also on that same wall was a draped flag of the icon of the newly adopted Swastika. It has a black background with a white circle in the center and the icon of the swastika positioned prominently within the circle.

Then there was a knock on the door. 

"Come in," Michael nodded to Daniel as he entered the office. Daniel approached with professional ease, carrying a thick folder under his arm. He laid the folder on Ernest's desk and opened it to reveal detailed sketches and fabric samples

"These are the designs for the security force uniforms, as well as the proposed attire for party officials and members," Daniel explained, pointing to the neatly arranged illustrations. Each design featured sleek lines and a professional aesthetic, incorporating the black and white color scheme that mirrored the flag's palette. The uniforms were designed to be not only visually striking but also functional, with durable materials suited for various activities and weather conditions.

Ernest leaned forward, examining the sketches closely. The uniforms for the security force feature a deep, earthy brown, giving it a robust and authoritative look. The fabric was a thick, durable cotton blend, designed to withstand wear and tear while still being comfortable enough for all-day wear. The trousers matched the shirt, tailored to allow freedom of movement, and black boots.

A key feature of the uniform was the armband. It was black with a white circle in the center, inside which the new swastika symbol was prominently displayed. This armband was positioned on the left arm, serving as a clear identifier of the security force and symbolizing their allegiance to the party's ideals.

Daniel had also proposed a cap to complete the ensemble, styled in the same brown fabric with a simple, unadorned peak, bearing the party's emblem stitched subtly on the front. 

As for the members, well they are similar to the officer's uniform but less gaudy and more standardized for mass production. These member uniforms maintain the same color scheme but feature simpler cuts and lighter fabric, making them practical and cost-effective for wide distribution among party members. They include a straightforward shirt, trousers, and a simpler version of the cap, designed to be easily recognized while ensuring comfort during long gatherings and events.

The member caps lack the intricate stitching found on the officer caps but still display a small version of the party emblem, ensuring unity in design across all levels of the organization. The armband remains a constant across all uniforms, maintaining the visual connection to the party's core values and symbol.

Ernest nodded his approval as he reviewed each piece of the design. "These uniforms were beyond my expectations. How soon can we get them into production?"

Daniel responded with a confident tone. "I've already secured the necessary materials from reliable suppliers. With your go-ahead today, we can start production immediately. The first batch should be ready within three weeks."

"That's excellent," Ernest replied, visibly pleased with the efficiency. "Proceed with the production as planned."

Daniel nodded, making a note in his folder. "Absolutely, I'll oversee the production personally and ensure that all specifications are met with the highest standards."

Ernest then shifted his focus back to the broader scope of their campaign. "Once we have the uniforms, we'll coordinate a launch event. We will march on the streets of Crentia as if it was a military band, it will be a groundbreaking moment for us," Ernest detailed his vision with enthusiasm.

***

Three weeks later, the date was February 29th, 1946. The morning was brisk and clear. Ernest sat in his office reviewing the final details of the day's agenda when he heard a firm knock at the door.

"Enter," he called, looking up as Kleist entered the room.

"Herr Teucher," he called, looking up as Kleist entered the room.

"Excellent," Ernest replied, standing and smoothing his suit jacket. "Let's go then."

He followed Kleist out of the office and down several corridors, emerging into the chilly air of the early morning. They walked toward a large, open ground behind the party headquarters, where the first batch of the newly formed security force was assembled.

As they approached, Ernest could see the lines of men, exactly 1,000 strong, standing in perfect formation. Each member was dressed in the newly designed uniform: earthy brown shirts and trousers, complemented by sturdy black boots, and the distinctive armband with the party's new symbol emblazoned upon it. They held batons projecting the authority and discipline that Ernest had envisioned.

Kleist led Ernest to a raised platform overlooking the assembly. 

"Attention!" Kleist called out, and the crack of a thousand movements in unison sent a palpable wave through the air.

Ernest stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the men who represented the future strength and order of the party. He cleared his throat. 

"This is good, it would be best if their weapon is a rifle, not a baton," Ernest commented.

"Acquiring firearms would be difficult, Herr Teucher. The Treaty of Fontaine limits the Crentian arms industry to produce its own weaponry. They were confiscated by the coalition forces and we are only dependent on the arms import from our neighboring allies, which is, of course, heavily monitored and restricted," Kleist explained.

"Damn, they really crippled our army," Ernest said, clicking his tongue.

Ernest nodded thoughtfully, understanding the constraints. "Then, for now, the batons must suffice. Train them rigorously, and make them as disciplined and effective as any armed force. When the time comes, and it will come, we'll be ready to arm them appropriately."

"That's the problem, Herr Teucher. We don't have a person capable of making them disciplined. What they need is an army officer."

"An army officer? Isn't there an officer who joined our party?" Ernest asked.

Kleist shook his head. "Unfortunately, there were none. The Crentian military as of right now is simply serving the government of Crentis. However, I do have an idea," Kleist continued, his tone suggesting a new possibility. "In the Treaty of Fontaine, the army was reduced to 100,000 men. A lot of men in front of us were soldiers of the Great War who lost their jobs. But it's not only soldiers but officers as well. If we can find and recruit them, it will bolster our militia."

"I see, in that case, without an officer to lead them, I'll be in charge of the militia," Ernest said. "I'll find one suitable later."