SS-Begleitkommando des Führers  SS-Begleitkommando des Führers ("SS Escort Command of the Führer"; SS-BKdF), later known as the Führerbegleitkommando (Führer Escort Command; FBK) was originally an eight-man SS squad formed from a twelve-man security squad (known as the "SS-Begleitkommando") tasked with protecting the life of Adolf Hitler during the early 1930s. Another bodyguard unit, the "Reichssicherheitsdienst" (Reich Security Service; RSD) was formed 1933, and by the following year replaced the FBK in providing Hitler's overall security throughout Germany. The FBK continued under separate command from the RSD and provided close, personal security for Hitler. The two units worked together for Hitler's security and protection, especially during trips and public events. Although, they operated at such events as separate groups and used separate vehicles. When the FBK unit was expanded, the additional officers and men were selected from the Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler (LSSAH). The majority of these additional men were used by Hitler as guards for his residences while uninhabited and as orderlies, valets, waiters, and couriers. The FBK accompanied Hitler on all his travels and was always present at the different "Führerhauptquartiere" (Führer Headquarters; FHQ) throughout World War II. When on duty, the FBK members were the only armed personnel Hitler allowed to be near him. The unit remained responsible for Hitler's personal protection until his suicide in Berlin on 30 April 1945. The "SS-Begleitkommando" was formed on 29 February 1932 to provide general protection to Hitler and other party functionaries. Twelve "Schutzstaffel" (SS) members were selected by Sepp Dietrich to present to Hitler. From the twelve, a smaller eight-man team called the "SS-Begleitkommando des Führers" was chosen to protect Hitler as he travelled around Germany. Their first appearance was when they accompanied Hitler during the election campaign trips in 1932. They served around the clock protecting Hitler. Formed in March 1933, the "Führerschutzkommando" (FSK) replaced the "SS-Begleitkommando" for Hitler's overall protection throughout Germany in the spring of 1934.