Hitler, in early 1923, ordered the formation of a small separate bodyguard dedicated to his service and protection rather than an uncontrolled mass of the party, such as the SA.[3] Originally the unit was composed of only eight men, commanded by Schreck and Joseph Berchtold.[4] It was designated the Stabswache ("Staff Guard").[5] The Stabswache were issued unique badges, but at this point the Stabswache was still under overall control of the SA, whose membership continued to increase.