Why This Album Stands Out:
•Rare Content: Features both battlefield documentation and personal moments, offering a well-rounded narrative of Wehrmacht life during WWII.
•Leadership Focus: With high-ranking officers like Hauptmann Spang and Hauptmann Bauer, the album offers a unique view into command structures and leadership roles.
•Historical Value: Captures pivotal events such as the invasion of Poland and the transition to garrison life, making it a valuable artifact for collectors and historians alike.
Specifications:
•Condition: Very good; photographs and captions are clear and well-preserved.
•Provenance: Manufactured by M.L. Schneider, Hilfsbuchbinderei, Heilbronn a.N., as indicated by a label on the back cover.
•Contents: Over 50 pages of original photographs with handwritten captions, featuring a mix of formal military operations, candid moments, and cultural traditions.
Die deutsche Infanterie
The German Infantry
Never was anything achieved that compares to the German foot soldier!
Outer honor knows it not, only its hard duty!
Earnest eyes, pale cheeks, quietly walked into death.
Where the father’s body was called, the son follows and speaks no word!
Simple and brave, late and early, unshaken in storms,
Humble infantry, may God protect you!
– v. Wallenberg
This page highlights two important landmarks in Germany: a scenic view of Stettin from St. Petri Tower and the historic Town Hall in Heilbronn am Neckar, showcasing the architectural beauty of German towns during the early 20th century.
Top Photograph – A view of Stettin (modern-day Szczecin, Poland) from the St. Petri Tower, showcasing the city’s historic architecture and layout.
•Description: The image depicts a view of a German town, likely taken from an elevated vantage point such as a castle or tower. Visible is a tall structure resembling a medieval tower on the left, overlooking rooftops, trees, and a spire in the distance, possibly a church.
•Caption Text on the Image: “Stettin vom St. Petri-Turm” (Stettin from St. Petri Tower).
Bottom Photograph – “The Town Hall in Heilbronn am Neckar, an iconic building in the region, surrounded by daily activity.”
•Description: This image shows a building labeled “Rathaus” (Town Hall) in the town of Heiligenstadt in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The building features intricate architecture, with a clock tower and decorative elements typical of German town halls.
•Caption Text on the Image: “Heilbronn a. N. Rathaus” (Heilbronn am Neckar, Town Hall).
A formal group photograph of German soldiers from World War II, likely part of the Heer (Army), posing in front of a barracks or military building. This type of photograph was commonly taken for unit documentation or as a memento for the soldiers and their families.
Description:
This is a group photograph showing a large formation of German soldiers in uniform, arranged in rows. The soldiers appear to be part of a military unit, posing formally for a group photo. The setting seems to be outdoors, possibly in a courtyard or in front of a military barracks, as suggested by the building with windows and shutters in the background.
Details to Note:
•Uniforms: The soldiers are wearing standard German military uniforms, possibly Heer (Army) personnel, given the lack of Luftwaffe or Kriegsmarine-specific insignia.
•Hats: Most soldiers are wearing peaked caps (Schirmmütze), typical of German military personnel.
•Formation: The structured rows and seated front suggest a formal, possibly ceremonial photo, often taken for documentation or as a keepsake.
Description:
This is a formal portrait of a German officer in uniform, likely from the Wehrmacht (German armed forces during WWII). The officer is wearing a high-ranking uniform with visible insignia and decorations that denote his position and achievements.
Details to Note:
•Eagle Insignia: The eagle above the breast pocket is a standard symbol of the Wehrmacht, indicating military affiliation.
•Neck Order: The medal around his neck appears to be the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross or a similar high-ranking military decoration. This was awarded for exceptional bravery or leadership.
•Shoulder Boards: The shoulder insignia indicates his rank. These appear to show he is a senior officer, possibly a colonel or general.
•Ribbon Bar: Above the left pocket, there is a ribbon bar, which signifies additional awards or campaigns he participated in.
Description:
This is a formal portrait of a German Wehrmacht officer in uniform. He is wearing a peaked cap and military decorations, typical of a commissioned officer during World War II.
Details to Note:
•Peaked Cap: The cap features the Wehrmacht eagle and wreath insignia above the brim, indicating his affiliation with the German Army (Heer).
•Shoulder Boards: His shoulder boards signify an officer’s rank, likely a lieutenant or captain, depending on the details of the insignia.
•Ribbon Bar: The horizontal ribbon bar above the left pocket signifies military awards or participation in campaigns.
•Breast Eagle: The eagle and swastika emblem above the right breast pocket is standard for Wehrmacht uniforms.
•Collar Tabs: The uniform has officer’s collar tabs with visible piping, indicating his role and rank in the Wehrmacht.
This page highlights the exterior and interior of a military headquarters during World War II. The ‘Stabsunterkunft’ entrance and office space depict the administrative side of military operations.
Top Photograph: The entrance to the ‘Stabsunterkunft’ (Staff Quarters), marked by a guarded archway and a sentry box, likely serving as headquarters for senior military personnel during World War II.
•Description: The image shows the entrance to a military or administrative building. The archway features a sign above it, which reads “Stabsunterkunft” (Staff Quarters), suggesting it is a headquarters or office for senior military staff. A sentry box with a distinctive zigzag pattern is visible, indicating the presence of guards.
•Details to Note:
•The presence of the sentry box suggests this is an important or restricted location, likely associated with command operations or administrative functions.
•The architecture and sign indicate a formal military environment.
Bottom Photograph: “Interior of a military office, featuring desks and equipment likely used for administrative or clerical tasks within the headquarters.”
•Description: This image appears to show the interior of a military office or administrative space. There are desks, papers, and possibly typewriters or other equipment visible in the room.
•Details to Note:
•The large windows suggest a bright working environment typical of administrative buildings.
•This setting might have been used for planning, clerical tasks, or intelligence work.
“A group of ten Wehrmacht officers or soldiers posing formally on a cobblestone street, possibly near their barracks or headquarters. The uniforms, peaked caps, and visible decorations reflect the formal attire of German Army personnel during World War II.”
This is a group photograph of ten German soldiers or officers in uniform. They are standing outdoors on a cobblestone street, likely in or near a military barracks or administrative building. The men appear to be posing formally for the photo, and their uniforms suggest they are part of the Wehrmacht (German armed forces).
Details to Note:
•Uniforms: The men are wearing standard German Army (Heer) uniforms, including tunics with breast eagle insignias and peaked caps (Schirmmütze).
•Ranks and Decorations: A few individuals have visible medals or ribbon bars on their tunics, indicating participation in campaigns or military achievements.
•Setting: The cobblestone street and surrounding architecture suggest an urban location, possibly near a barracks or administrative headquarters.
•Formation: The neat alignment of the soldiers suggests this is a formal group photo, possibly taken to commemorate a unit or event.
This page documents a formal military ceremony. The top photograph captures the larger formation of soldiers on parade, while the bottom image focuses on an individual soldier receiving recognition or honors from an officer.
Top Photograph (Labeled “19”):
•Description: This image depicts a large formation of German soldiers standing in a square formation during what appears to be a formal military event or ceremony. The location includes an open field surrounded by buildings and trees, likely a military base or training ground.
•Details to Note:
•The soldiers are arranged in precise ranks, typical for ceremonial drills or inspections.
•The presence of spectators or officers along the sides suggests an important event, possibly a review or awards ceremony.
•The distant view provides a clear perspective of the scale of the event.
“A formal military ceremony with German soldiers arranged in a square formation, likely taking place on a base or training ground. The event appears to involve a review or inspection by senior officers.”
Bottom Photograph (Labeled “14”):
•Description: This photograph shows a smaller group of soldiers, with one man appearing to receive recognition or an award from an officer. The background features rows of soldiers observing the event.
•Details to Note:
•The soldier receiving recognition stands at attention, and the officer is likely presenting a medal or similar honor.
•The open-air setting, with soldiers standing in formation, further supports the idea of an awards ceremony or promotion event.
“A soldier being recognized or awarded by a senior officer during a formal military ceremony, with fellow soldiers standing in formation as observers.”
This page depicts two formal marches by German soldiers during World War II. The top photograph highlights a mounted officer leading troops along a rural road, while the bottom photo shows soldiers marching through a city street in an organized column.
Top Photograph (Labeled “10”):
•Description: A marching formation of German soldiers is led by an officer on horseback. The soldiers are moving along a paved road, with trees lining the background. This is likely a parade or troop movement.
•Details to Note:
•The officer on horseback suggests a display of leadership or tradition, as mounted officers were often used for ceremonial purposes.
•The disciplined formation indicates this is a formal march, possibly during a training exercise, parade, or relocation of troops.
“A formation of German soldiers marching along a paved road, led by an officer on horseback, likely as part of a formal parade or troop movement.”
Bottom Photograph:
•Description: Another marching formation of German soldiers is shown, this time in an urban setting. The soldiers are in step, led by officers walking at the front of the column.
•Details to Note:
•The urban environment features buildings and storefronts, suggesting the march is taking place in a town or city.
•The soldiers are wearing standard Wehrmacht uniforms, and their disciplined movement suggests a public display or organized relocation.
“German soldiers marching in formation through a city street, led by officers. The urban surroundings suggest this could be part of a ceremonial event or public display.”
This page features two images of Wehrmacht infantry soldiers. The top photograph captures a formal march through a city street, while the bottom photo shows soldiers in a relaxed group pose in a wooded setting, possibly during training or downtime.
Top Photograph:
•Description: A group of German soldiers marching through a city street in formation. They appear to be carrying rifles, and their equipment suggests they are infantry soldiers. The backdrop includes urban buildings and possibly shops or residences.
•Details to Note:
•The soldiers are wearing steel helmets (Stahlhelm), standard for Wehrmacht infantry.
•The urban setting suggests this could be part of a deployment, a relocation, or even a ceremonial march.
•The disciplined formation indicates an organized movement typical of military units during the period.
“German Wehrmacht infantry soldiers marching through a city street in formation, equipped with rifles and steel helmets, likely part of a deployment or ceremonial event.”
Bottom Photograph:
•Description: A group of German soldiers posed outdoors in a relaxed formation. The soldiers are sitting or kneeling in the front and standing in the back, with some holding their rifles or helmets.
•Details to Note:
•The wooded background suggests this photo was taken during a training exercise, a break, or at a camp location.
•The mix of seated and standing soldiers gives the image a less formal and more candid tone.
•Helmets and rifles displayed prominently in the front indicate they were infantry troops.
“A group of German infantry soldiers posing in a wooded outdoor setting, possibly during training or a break from deployment, with helmets and rifles displayed.”
This page depicts two photographs of Wehrmacht soldiers in a wooded setting. The top image shows a casual gathering of soldiers, while the bottom photograph is a more organized group pose, suggesting a mix of candid and formal moments during field operations or training.
Top Photograph: “A group of Wehrmacht soldiers standing casually in a forest, likely during a break from training or field operations.”
•Description: A group of German soldiers standing in a forested area, casually gathered. The soldiers appear relaxed, and their poses are less formal, suggesting this photo was taken during downtime or a break.
•Details to Note:
•The soldiers are wearing standard German Army (Wehrmacht) uniforms with field caps, and some carry utility belts and equipment.
•The forest setting indicates this was likely taken during a field exercise, patrol, or a rest period in a wooded area.
Bottom Photograph: “A posed group photo of Wehrmacht soldiers in a wooded area, likely taken for documentation or as a unit keepsake.”
•Description: Another group of German soldiers is shown, this time posed more formally in the same or a similar wooded setting. The group includes both standing and seated soldiers, suggesting a more organized photo.
•Details to Note:
•Similar to the top photo, the soldiers are in field uniforms with utility belts, and their surroundings suggest a forest or rural area.
•The seated soldier at the front center and the alignment of the group suggest this photo was taken for documentation or as a keepsake.
This page captures two scenes of men in a non-combat environment. The top image shows a larger group, likely trainees or recruits, posed in a workshop or training facility, while the bottom photo features a smaller group engaged in technical or maintenance work in an industrial setting.
Top Photograph:
•Description: A group of men in uniform-like clothing gathered indoors, possibly in a workshop or classroom setting. They are wearing aprons or work uniforms, suggesting they may be engaged in training or a vocational task.
•Details to Note:
•Many of the individuals are wearing helmets or caps, which might indicate they are recruits or trainees.
•A small chalkboard or sign in the center appears to have writing on it, which could identify the group or the purpose of the photograph.
•The indoor setting and the casual nature of the photo suggest a non-combat environment, likely training or preparation.
“A group of men, possibly Wehrmacht recruits or trainees, posed indoors in a workshop or training facility, wearing work uniforms and helmets.”
Bottom Photograph:
•Description: A smaller group of men, dressed in aprons or work attire, are posed in what appears to be a workshop or industrial setting. Tools and equipment visible in the background suggest they are engaged in manual or technical work.
•Details to Note:
•The men are standing close to each other, with some holding tools, emphasizing their roles in hands-on tasks.
•The windows in the background allow natural light, characteristic of a workshop or factory.
•The informal poses and tools suggest the men could be part of a technical or maintenance unit.
“A small group of men, possibly part of a technical or maintenance unit, posing in a workshop with tools and equipment, engaged in manual labor or training.”
This page features two photographs of Wehrmacht infantry soldiers engaged in field exercises. The top image highlights prone firing practice under supervision, while the bottom image captures soldiers training in camouflage and defensive tactics in a wooded area.
Top Photograph:
•Description: A group of German soldiers is seen lying in prone positions in a wooded area, aiming their rifles or machine guns. An officer or senior soldier stands behind them, observing or supervising the activity.
•Details to Note:
•The soldiers are wearing steel helmets (Stahlhelm), which were standard for Wehrmacht infantry.
•The equipment, including rifles and a light machine gun, suggests this is a training exercise or combat simulation.
•The open wooded environment implies a controlled outdoor training location.
“German Wehrmacht soldiers during a training exercise, practicing prone firing positions under the supervision of an officer in a wooded area.”
Bottom Photograph:
•Description: Another group of soldiers is shown in a wooded area, lying in a more concealed position among leaves and foliage. The scene appears to depict soldiers practicing camouflage or defensive tactics.
•Details to Note:
•The soldiers are wearing helmets and carrying rifles, emphasizing their role as infantry.
•The use of natural cover suggests training in concealment or preparation for ambush scenarios.
•Caption Suggestion:
“Wehrmacht soldiers practicing camouflage and defensive tactics in a wooded environment, using natural foliage for cover.”
This page depicts Wehrmacht soldiers in wooded settings engaged in field activities. The left photograph shows two soldiers practicing observation techniques, while the right image captures a group in prone positions, possibly training in tactical concealment or taking a break.
Left Photograph:
•Description: Two German soldiers in a wooded area appear to be observing or scouting. One soldier is standing, leaning against a tree, while the other is kneeling, possibly using binoculars or other observation equipment.
•Details to Note:
•The standing soldier’s relaxed posture and the kneeling soldier’s focused attention suggest they are engaged in reconnaissance or training in observation techniques.
•The wooded setting is typical for training or field exercises in natural environments.
“Two Wehrmacht soldiers in a wooded area, practicing observation techniques during training or reconnaissance.”
Right Photograph:
•Description: A group of soldiers is lying in a wooded area, possibly in a concealed position. They appear to be resting or participating in a training exercise involving concealment or tactical positioning.
•Details to Note:
•The soldiers are spaced closely together, and their equipment is not visible, suggesting this could be a moment of rest or less formal activity.
•The wooded environment and prone positions indicate a continued emphasis on camouflage or field survival tactics.
“A group of Wehrmacht soldiers resting or practicing tactical positioning in a wooded area, likely during a training exercise.”
This page showcases Wehrmacht infantry soldiers in wooded environments. The left photo features a group pose, possibly for documentation, while the right image highlights a soldier or small group practicing camouflage and concealment during field training.
Left Photograph:
A group of German soldiers is standing outdoors in a wooded area. The soldiers appear to be posing for a group photo, and their equipment and attire suggest they are infantry.
•The soldiers are wearing helmets and field uniforms typical of Wehrmacht infantry.
•The background includes trees, indicating this photo was taken in a rural or forested area.
•The group’s stance and the organized nature of the photo suggest it could be a keepsake or documentation of the unit.
“A group of Wehrmacht soldiers posing in a wooded area, likely during training or a field exercise, as part of a unit keepsake or documentation.”
Right Photograph:
A single soldier or small group is positioned in a heavily wooded area. The setting and positioning suggest they are practicing concealment or engaging in field tactics.
•The soldier(s) are partially concealed among the vegetation, emphasizing tactical training in camouflage.
•The thick vegetation and rugged terrain indicate this was taken in a dense forest, possibly during field exercises or reconnaissance practice.
“A Wehrmacht soldier practicing concealment and tactical positioning in a dense forest, likely as part of field training or reconnaissance exercises.”
This image depicts a group of people gathered indoors, likely in a private or social setting. The group includes both men and women, and they appear to be sitting and standing around a central table, possibly during a celebration or informal meeting.
The setting appears to be a well-furnished room, with patterned wallpaper and a window covered by a striped curtain. The presence of a lamp adds to the homely atmosphere.
The group seems relaxed and engaged, suggesting this was a candid or informal gathering. The variety of ages and genders present indicates this could be a family gathering or a social event involving civilians and military personnel.
Some of the individuals are in civilian clothing, while others might be in uniform or formal attire, though this is difficult to confirm due to the photo’s small size.
“A group of men and women gathered indoors in a cozy setting, possibly during a social or family event. The relaxed atmosphere suggests a moment of respite or celebration.”
This page documents the soldier’s time with the 15th Infantry Replacement Regiment during training exercises in Nuremberg. The photograph serves as a keepsake of the city where the exercises took place
Text Translation:
The handwritten text at the top reads:
•“2. Übung”: “2nd Exercise”
•“2. Aug. 1938 – 15. Okt. 1938”: “August 2, 1938 – October 15, 1938”
•“bei 15. (E.) J.R. 21 in Nürnberg”: “with the 15th (Ersatz/Replacement) Infantry Regiment 21 in Nuremberg”
The photograph shows a scenic view of Nuremberg, specifically the area near the river and the “Heilig-Geist-Spital” (Hospital of the Holy Spirit), a well-known historical building in the city.
•The picturesque architecture along the river reflects Nuremberg’s historical charm.
•The setting suggests the image was included as part of the soldier’s documentation of their time in Nuremberg during the training period.
This page documents the military base of the Replacement Battalion of Infantry Regiment 21 in Nuremberg. The top image features the entrance to the compound with its sentry posts and orderly layout, while the bottom image showcases another area of the base, possibly barracks or administrative facilities.
Top Photograph:
This image shows the entrance to a military installation. The gate is flanked by sentry posts painted with a black-and-white chevron pattern, a common motif for guardhouses during this period. The buildings inside the compound appear to be barracks or administrative offices.
•The caption reads: “Ers.-Battl. J.R. 21 Nürnberg”, which translates to “Replacement Battalion of Infantry Regiment 21, Nuremberg.”
•The compound is well-organized, with visible fencing and orderly buildings, indicating a typical military base.
•The sentry posts and the wide-open road leading into the base highlight its formal and strategic purpose.
“The entrance to the Replacement Battalion of Infantry Regiment 21 in Nuremberg, featuring sentry posts and barracks buildings.”
Bottom Photograph:
A smaller and less clear image, likely showing another part of the military installation or a related structure. The bluish tint suggests it may be a copy or a damaged print.
•The low, elongated buildings are consistent with barracks or storage facilities.
•Flags or flagpoles are visible, which might indicate the main administrative area or command center.
“A section of the military base for Infantry Regiment 21, possibly depicting additional barracks or administrative buildings.”
This is a formal portrait of a German officer from the Wehrmacht. The individual is wearing a uniform with visible insignia and decorations, typical for a commissioned officer during World War II.
•Shoulder Boards: The epaulets suggest a mid to senior officer rank, likely a major or lieutenant colonel. The pattern on the boards could provide specific rank identification.
•Collar Tabs: The collar insignia further signifies the officer’s rank and affiliation with the German Army (Heer).
•Breast Eagle: The Wehrmacht eagle insignia is prominently displayed on the right chest, a standard feature of the uniform.
•Ribbon Bar: The ribbon bar above the left breast pocket likely represents campaign or service medals, indicating participation in prior military campaigns.
•Decorations: A ribbon, possibly for the Iron Cross Second Class, is visible threaded through the buttonhole.
•Glasses and Facial Expression: The officer’s round glasses and composed demeanor convey a professional, formal appearance, consistent with Wehrmacht officer portraits of the time.
“Formal portrait of a Wehrmacht officer, wearing mid-to-senior rank insignia and displaying decorations for service, including a ribbon for the Iron Cross Second Class. The photograph reflects the professionalism and hierarchy of German military personnel during World War II.”
This is a full-body outdoor portrait of a German Wehrmacht officer in uniform. The officer is standing in a formal pose, holding a pair of gloves or a cap in his left hand. The photo appears to have been taken in a garden or outdoor setting, with a fence and trees in the background.
The officer is wearing a formal Wehrmacht uniform with visible decorations and insignia.
•The ribbon on the second button suggests the Iron Cross Second Class.
•Several medals are visible on the left chest, which could represent additional service awards or honors.
•Peaked Cap: The officer is wearing the standard Wehrmacht officer’s peaked cap (Schirmmütze), which features the eagle and wreath insignia.
•The formal pose and outdoor location suggest this photo may have been taken as part of a personal or professional milestone, possibly for documentation or as a keepsake.
•A faint signature or marking at the bottom right appears to identify the officer.
“A formal portrait of a Wehrmacht officer in full uniform, photographed in an outdoor setting. The officer displays several decorations, including the ribbon for the Iron Cross Second Class, and poses with a cap or gloves in hand.”
This is a formal group photograph of a large formation of German soldiers, likely from the Wehrmacht, posing in multiple rows in front of a building, possibly a barracks or administrative building. The soldiers are wearing full uniforms with peaked caps.
All soldiers are dressed in standard Wehrmacht uniforms, and most are wearing peaked caps (Schirmmütze), signifying a formal occasion.
•The building in the background, with its simple and functional design, appears to be a military barracks or part of a training facility.
•The ground is unpaved, and the area around the building is open, indicating a rural or semi-rural military installation.
A signboard at the center of the group may contain the unit name, location, or occasion, though the text is not clearly legible from this image.
The soldiers are arranged in a structured formation, with seated, kneeling, and standing rows, typical of formal group photos meant for documentation or commemorative purposes.
“Formal group photograph of a Wehrmacht unit, posed in front of a barracks building. The structured arrangement and uniform attire suggest this was taken for documentation or as a unit keepsake during training or deployment.”
This page depicts a formal military event at a Wehrmacht base. The top photograph shows a senior officer inspecting soldiers standing at attention, while the bottom photograph captures the same unit marching in formation as part of a ceremonial parade.
A senior Wehrmacht officer is inspecting a formation of soldiers standing at attention. The soldiers are lined up in an organized formation outside a row of barracks or administrative buildings.
•The soldiers are wearing standard uniforms, some with helmets, which could indicate readiness for a ceremonial or formal event.
•The officer appears to be conducting an inspection or addressing the formation as part of a standard military routine.
•The barracks in the background highlight the setting, likely a training facility or military base.
“A senior Wehrmacht officer inspecting a formation of soldiers standing at attention outside a row of barracks, likely during a formal inspection or ceremony.”
Bottom Photograph:
The soldiers are now marching in formation, with the senior officer saluting them as they pass by. The movement and the background suggest this is part of a parade or a ceremonial march.
•The soldiers maintain a disciplined march, demonstrating their training and coordination.
•The setting remains consistent with a military base, featuring both barracks and larger administrative buildings in the background.
•The officer saluting suggests this is a formal event, possibly marking the conclusion of an inspection or the beginning of a ceremonial activity.
“Wehrmacht soldiers marching in formation during a ceremonial event, with a senior officer saluting them as they pass by.”
This image captures two Wehrmacht officers walking side by side outside a military barracks or administrative building. Their formal attire and relaxed stride suggest they are either concluding or preparing for an official inspection or meeting.
•Both individuals are wearing standard Wehrmacht officer uniforms.
•The officer on the left is adorned with a peaked cap (Schirmmütze), indicating a formal rank. Decorations, including a ribbon bar and insignia, are visible on his chest.
•The officer on the right is also in uniform but wears a side cap (Feldmütze), which was common for more informal settings.
•The wooden barracks-style buildings in the background suggest this is a military base or training facility.
•The gravel path they are walking on further indicates the setting is an outdoor area within a military installation.
•The officers seem to be in discussion or casually walking together, implying this moment was likely captured during a break or after a formal event.
“Two Wehrmacht officers walking outside a barracks building, dressed in formal military uniforms, possibly during an inspection or after a ceremonial event.”
This page showcases various aspects of Wehrmacht soldier life, including formal portraits, camaraderie among comrades, and field exercises involving tactical training and concealment.
Top Left Photograph:
A portrait of a Wehrmacht soldier in uniform and helmet. The pose is formal, with the soldier likely photographed during a break or ceremonial occasion.
•The steel helmet (Stahlhelm) and uniform suggest this is an infantry soldier.
“Portrait of a Wehrmacht soldier in full uniform and helmet, standing in a formal pose.”
Top Center Photograph:
Three Wehrmacht soldiers standing together, posing casually. Two are wearing steel helmets, while one appears to be in a cap.
•The relaxed poses suggest this is an informal snapshot among comrades.
“Three Wehrmacht soldiers posing casually, showcasing camaraderie during a break or informal moment.”
Top Right Photograph:
A portrait of another Wehrmacht soldier, this time without a helmet, standing in a formal pose.
•The neat uniform and clean background suggest a formal portrait taken for documentation or keepsake purposes.
“Formal portrait of a Wehrmacht soldier, dressed in uniform without a helmet.”
Center Photograph:
A group of Wehrmacht soldiers standing in front of a building, possibly barracks. This appears to be a more organized group photograph.
•The setting suggests this was taken outside a military base or training facility.
“Group photograph of Wehrmacht soldiers standing outside a building, possibly during training or a routine event.”
Bottom Left Photograph:
Two soldiers are sitting or crouching in a grassy field. They are likely engaging in training exercises or resting during field activities.
The field setting suggests a rural training location or combat simulation.
“Two Wehrmacht soldiers crouched in a grassy field, likely during training or field exercises.”
Bottom Right Photograph:
Soldiers lying prone in a wooded area, likely engaging in tactical or camouflage training.
•Their positions suggest this is part of a field exercise focused on concealment and positioning.
“Wehrmacht soldiers practicing concealment and tactical positioning in a wooded area during a field exercise.”
This page highlights different aspects of Wehrmacht life, including technical work, daily administrative tasks, interior living spaces, and a soldier ready for duty. The photographs provide a glimpse into both the operational and personal environments of the German military.
This page highlights a mix of Wehrmacht activities, including tactical training exercises in wooded and open areas and a formal inspection or event with soldiers in summer uniforms.
This page captures informal moments of Wehrmacht soldiers during downtime or communal events, showcasing team-building activities, group gatherings, and collaborative tasks.
This page highlights the informal and recreational side of Wehrmacht life, including moments with dogs, small group activities, and games, showcasing the soldiers’ camaraderie and downtime at a military facility.
Text Translation:
•Top Heading: “Feldzug gegen Polen”
•Translation: “Campaign Against Poland”
•Date: “26.8.39 bis 28.10.39”
•Translation: “August 26, 1939, to October 28, 1939”
•Group Label: “Gruppe Kaucher”
•Translation: “Group Kaucher”
•Location Note: “Aufgen. in Radom”
•Translation: “Photographed in Radom”
•Radom is a city in Poland that was occupied by German forces during the invasion of Poland in 1939.
Description: A formal group portrait of Wehrmacht soldiers posing indoors. The soldiers are arranged in rows, with some standing, others seated, and a few kneeling in front.
•The soldiers are wearing standard Wehrmacht uniforms, including field caps (Feldmütze), which were common for combat units.
•Their expressions are serious and formal, typical of group portraits taken during this period for documentation or keepsakes.
•The backdrop is plain, and the indoor setting suggests this photo was taken in a temporary headquarters or civilian building repurposed during the occupation.
“Group portrait of Wehrmacht soldiers from ‘Group Kaucher,’ taken in Radom, Poland, during the campaign against Poland between August 26 and October 28, 1939.”
“Formal portrait of a Wehrmacht soldier, taken in Radom, Poland, during the 1939 campaign. The soldier wears a field cap and standard uniform, showcasing the attire of German Army personnel at the time.”
Text Translation:
•“Aufgen. in Radom”:
•Translation: “Photographed in Radom”
•This indicates the photograph was taken in Radom, Poland, likely during the German campaign against Poland in 1939.
Photograph Description:
•Description: A formal portrait of a Wehrmacht soldier, taken in a studio or similarly controlled setting. The soldier is wearing a standard German Army (Heer) uniform and a field cap (Feldmütze).
•Details to Note:
•Uniform:
•The soldier is wearing a tunic with standard Wehrmacht insignia, including the breast eagle emblem on the right chest.
•The epaulets suggest the rank of an enlisted soldier or junior non-commissioned officer.
•Field Cap: The cap features the cockade and eagle insignia, both standard for Wehrmacht field attire.
•Expression and Pose: The soldier is posed formally, with a neutral and composed expression, typical of military portraits taken for documentation or as keepsakes.
•Setting:
•The clean, blurred background suggests this was taken in an indoor setting, likely arranged during a period of rest or administration in Radom.
Text Translation:
1.Top Text (Caption for First Photo):
•“Die ersten poln. Gefangene”
•Translation: “The first Polish prisoners”
2.Bottom Text (Caption for Second Photo):
•“Gefangener poln. General (7. Division) mit Adjutant als unser Gast in Guttentag (poln. Grenze).”
•Translation: “Captured Polish general (7th Division) with adjutant as our guest in Guttentag (Polish border).”
Photograph Descriptions:
1.Top Photograph:
A group of Polish prisoners of war (POWs) captured during the campaign against Poland. They are being marched or gathered in a location with visible tension and movement.
•Details to Note:
•The men appear disheveled, reflecting the aftermath of their capture.
•The group includes both soldiers and possibly civilians, indicating the early stages of the campaign.
•Caption Suggestion:
“Polish prisoners of war captured during the initial phase of the German invasion of Poland in 1939.”
2.Bottom Photograph:
A captured Polish general from the 7th Division and his adjutant are being hosted as “guests” by the German forces. This was likely taken to document the surrender or high-ranking POWs.
•Details to Note:
•The general is dressed formally, maintaining composure despite his capture.
•The location, Guttentag (now Dobrodzień, Poland), near the Polish-German border, is noted as significant during the campaign.
•Caption Suggestion:
“A captured Polish general of the 7th Division with his adjutant, hosted as guests by German forces in Guttentag near the Polish border.”
This page documents two incidents involving Polish individuals during the German occupation. The top photograph depicts a mother and daughter accused of murdering a German officer, while the bottom photograph highlights a Polish priest labeled as an insurgent among a crowd.
1.Top Photograph:
•Text: “Freischärler. Mutter und Tochter ermordeten einen deutschen Offizier.”
•Translation: “Irregulars. Mother and daughter murdered a German officer.”
2.Bottom Photograph:
•Text: “Poln. Pfarrer als Insurgent.”
•Translation: “Polish priest as insurgent.”
Photograph Descriptions:
1.Top Photograph:
•Description: Two women are standing outdoors next to a car in what appears to be a rural or small-town setting. These women are identified as part of an incident involving the murder of a German officer.
•Details to Note:
•The setting and their attire suggest this photo was taken in a civilian area under German occupation.
•The mention of “Freischärler” (irregulars) indicates they were considered part of local resistance or irregular combatants.
•Caption Suggestion:
“Photograph of a mother and daughter accused of killing a German officer, labeled as irregulars during the German occupation.”
2.Bottom Photograph:
•Description: A group of men, including one identified as a Polish priest, standing in a crowd. The priest is labeled an insurgent, suggesting he was part of local resistance efforts or accused of inciting rebellion.
•Details to Note:
•The crowd and setting imply this was part of a public event, possibly the arrest or detention of the priest.
•The priest appears to be singled out in the text, highlighting his alleged role in resistance activities.
•Caption Suggestion:
“Polish priest labeled as an insurgent during the German occupation, standing among a crowd in what appears to be a public detention or gathering.”
….more to come
