Albanian Fascist Militia

The Albanian Fascist Militia (MFSH) (Albanian: Milicia Fashiste Shqiptare) was an Albanian fascist paramilitary group formed in 1939, following the Italian invasion of Albania. As a wing of the Italian Blackshirts (MVSN), the militia initially consisted of Italian colonists in Albania but later Albanian volunteers were also enlisted and made the majority of the group until it was disbanded in 1943. It was headquartered in Tirana.^[1]

Albanian Fascist Militia
Milicia Fashiste Shqiptare
Active	18 September 1939
Disbanded	8 September 1943
Country	Albania (Italian protectorate)
Allegiance	Fascist Italy (1922–1943)
Type	Paramilitary, Gendarmerie
Role	Maintaining public order
Commanders
Lieutenant General	Francesco Jacomoni

History

The Albanian Fascist Militia (MFSH) dated 18.9.1939 was formed by Decree no. 91 of the deputy general and was part of the National Security Volunteer Militia headed by Commander General Mussolini. The militia was tasked with maintaining internal order at the request of the prime minister. Its recruitment was voluntary for all persons who met the requirements for membership of the Fascist Party. The officers were appointed by the General Command of the Voluntary National Security Militia, following the proposal of the Commander of the Albanian Fascist Militia (MFSH), after the Secretary of the Fascist Party was consulted. NCOs, graduates, black shirts were all appointed by the MFSH commander.

White Qeleshe headwear

Aluminum ornament

The insignia of the Albanian Fascist Militia displayed in clothing and as an accessory.

The MFSH consisted of one command, four legions and ten cohorts. It was fully funded by the state.

The militia was disbanded in 1943 following the surrender of Italy in World War II.

References

1. Dervishi, Kastriot (2004). Si u krijua Milicia Fashiste Shqiptare. Tiranë: Shtëpia Botuese "55". p. 15.