The Great War Association Central Powers Handbook: German Troops, Basic Impression
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Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 1 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 German Soldier. It is also my hope to make this Handbuch a good reference for our “veteran” reenactors to help them too. Please don’t think we will expect you to know all this information your first time out (or even second or third). This info will take some time for you to absorb, and for much of it, you must have attended an event for it to make sense. Still, print it out, read it over every once in awhile and use it as a reference — keep it in the bathroom if need be, (it is good bathroom reading) but All copyrights are retained by the original holder and do keep at it. no rights are lost. This Handbuch is a not-for-profit publication for the betterment of the Great War For their knowledge and help in putting this manual Association, along with the Great War reenacting together, a hearty DANKE SCHÖN! is given to the following: hobby as a whole. All rights under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act are in force. Herrn Chris Schneider—Member of Füs.Rgt. 73 his proofreading and many corrections. Chefredaktur...... Rudolf Weiß Korrekturlesen:...... Eric Zienta Herrn Marcus Strehl—member of German DSM for ...... Marcus Strehl his help, clarifications and photos...... Chris Schneider Herrn Manuel Wöller—member of German DSM for Please note, there are a few notes for things to add his help, clarifications and photos. and also a few formatting things. Some text is “greyed-out”—meaning it needs to be re-written—just Herrn Glen Dresbeck—for his great article The a note on that so you didn’t think it was in error. Yes, First-Person Impression, along with his tireless we know, sometimes we have repeated things in work for the hobby. sections... oh well. Maybe it’s important, maybe it will Herrn Doug Kingdom—member of J.R. 124, mentor, get fixed in a future edit. a true brother and more! Many a “discussion” You might see some formatting errors, as this there, but in the end, always worth it! Vielen Dank document was brought from Adobe InDesign, to MS Papi! Word, a much more primitive program, but one that is Herrn Dr. Donald Crosby—For making his also much more common to our team. Again, as we translations and to make the German commo say, bear with us and use this in German-ly section accurate and also for making me a better comradeship. “German.” Credits to come. We also will be crediting photos, just Herrn Tony Schnurr of Der Kaiser’s Bunker not time yet. And YES, we know, some are form
Louis Brown Randall Chapmann Jef “Fontanak” Fontana t Geoff Giglierano Mike Gonzales Mark Graef Frank James Andreas Jödecke Craig “Deks” Nordquist Karl-Heinz Rubasch Dave Stone
These people above are among the most knowledgeable I know—ready to help anyone. Again, I must thank them! If you’re able to describe something better; a piece of equipment or uniform part, etc., please do so and send it in! Also any good, clean line-drawings of uniforms, equipment or neat clip-art would be most appreciated! And of course, now that we’ve moved into the “digital age” nice colour photos of real kit are also welcomed and appreciated! Lastly, remember, this manual is meant to help all of us in our quest to find the real Frontsoldat—it’s not about “us” being better than “them.” It’s about us trying to do it right! Thank you Marsh Wise Central Powers Representative 27.XI.2013
Comments? [email protected]
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 3 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 result in the new guy spending a LOT of money on stuff he can’t use or that is incorrect. We hope to help him avoid that.
Who For This book, while written for newer members of the Central Powers, is also meant to help those “veterans” who have been doing this for a while.
Sections and Appendices This is basically an Introduction and the basic kit one wears. We have a second section called “The Complete Soldat” which will cover other, more advanced options. “Der Mann” is a section covering the German man himself... We have many articles on the German soldier and his life—as many as you wish to read. We have a drill manual underway and this will be available soon. With this Handbuch and its appendices, you will gain the knowledge as if you had been through the German Rekrut Depot (or at least that’s our goal).
Definitions At the end of this, we will be attaching a list of definitions to help explain some of the terms we use.
Vendors Check with your unit as to what vendors they allow and use. You may also visit the Reenactor’s Consumer Guide at: http://www.reenactorconsumer.com/ Introduction to check vendor feedback. And if you have a great experience with a vendor, please leave them Greetings and Welcome! feedback—conversely, if your experience was not so You are looking at the Great War association’s pleasant, you should share that with your fellows. Handbuch for Central Powers Troops: German Troops. The Austrian Handbuch will come later. A note on the German military: Please understand This document will attempt to show what the that the German Army did things differently than the uniforms and kit really look like and eventually, will U. S. military does them. The German Army was just have a cross reference to the GWA Authenticity not that “uniform” in the way we understand the regulations. term. Different uniforms, use of civilian items such as As with anything of this sort, this is a living document shirts, etc. all gave the Kaiser’s Army a decidedly un- that will likely change as we find newer and better uniform look, especially after the first few months of information. Please take it for what it is and if you the war. find something you think is in error, please let us After the war started, ca. 1915 or so, there were know. shortages of uniforms (along with the new models being The Germans issued) and gear. “Ersatz” items began to be seen and this is why one can see instances of three different This Handbuch came out of a need to help new people patterns of field jackets being worn in a unit at the build their impression, not only accurately, but also same time of the war. correctly. The Germans were different than the American Army of today, or even the early 20th Comparing the Germans to the Americans is like Century. Sadly, there is not much guidance, other comparing apples and oranges; just remember this than some unit’s handbooks and manuals... Often the and you’ll be okay. new guy is left to the mercy of vendors and this can
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 4 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Welcome to World War One… The Great War the “normal” horrors of war such as rats, mud, by Rick Keller, Great War Militaria disease, constant terror, and mutilation beyond comprehension, all of which left an impression that few can relate to in our modern “civilized” world. elcome to the fascinating era known as The Great War. If your interests extend into the Now Forgotten W re-creation of this period in our history, we can Ask most assure you that you will not be disappointed. WWI students today offers a unique and exciting type of “recreation” that about the First compares to no other, in fact, all other forms of World War and reenacting will seem dull after a weekend “in the they will only trenches.” give you a World War I (or the “Great War” as it was called by those who blank stare. fought in it) saw war at its unbelievable worst. Death Very few was a constant companion stalking through the Americans trenches, as he never had before. Life for the soldiers can even took on new horrors, the kind that only trench tell you warfare can produce. There was never anything like it the years before and there will never be anything like it again— during WWI stands alone in history as man’s greatest which cruelty to his fellow man—each day growing to new WWI was heights of madness. fought; let alone Gains were measured in yards, at a cost of lives that what the to this day is still unresolved. Casualties were rounded-off to the hundreds of thousands as men were swallowed up in the hell of trench warfare. A November 11th holiday means! The veterans of the generation of men was lost forever, and in certain Great War are almost all gone now and the few of us towns throughout England and France, the flower of who had the honor of knowing them, have been left youthful manhood was entirely erased, slaughtered with a curiosity and reverence toward those soldiers in rows by the latest German weapon, the Maxim which has demanded a more in-depth exploration into machinegun. Those men who weren’t killed on the “their” world. What was it like to live and fight in the battlefield, had their lives irretrievably shattered. trenches? Was it really THAT bad? Quite simply, Places like Verdun and the Somme taught a need for YES—IT WAS! new tactics, as both sides settled down to the stalemate of trench warfare. The soldiers experienced The Great War Today new and unheard-of horrors such poison gas and The accurate recreation of such an era of warfare has week-long artillery bombardments—not to mention been no simple task, but on small battlefields around the country (around the world, in fact) reenactors have created the closest thing possible. These battlefields have trenches, bunkers and yes, real barbed wire. There are grenades and working mortars, as well as machine guns and full-scale over-the-top assaults. Nighttime is punctuated by trench raids carried out under the eerie light of flares and star shells. In the adjacent trench bay, there is the sound of a hand-to- hand struggle as each side battles for possession of the trench, with the victor usually being driven back
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 5 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 by a reorganized counter attack. In “no-man’s-land,” part in an all-out assault on the enemy’s line, or face the quiet of a shell hole is interrupted by a form in the the thrill of repelling a mass of men swarming over dark, which could be an your barbed wire into your trenches. Experience being enemy or it could be a part of a raiding party and taking part of the enemy’s friend—thinking it is trench. Or, if you’re careless, you might have your not the enemy can throat cut by a silent raider while strolling through result in a grenade in your own rear lines. You can be a machine-gunner, a your lap. After the mortar man, or a grunt. It is all up to you and your fight, you scurry involvement in the hobby—and to your dedication to a back to your particular impression. One thing we can promise is trenches, but that you will be totally exhausted, as you never have even this can before—by the end of the event, you will find muscles put you into a in your body that you never knew were there. You will nasty barbed also acquire a new outlook on the term “recreation” as wire opposed to reenactment.”
Some Serious Stuff World War I “recreations” are by no means in its infancy. This (2013) is WWI reenacting’s 34th year. Time will take care of our needs, and more sites have sprung up around the country, meanwhile we work with what we have and still have fun! Much has been gained over a long continuous uphill struggle with the efforts of many very dedicated individuals who have NEVER received (nor asked) for any due credit. We urge you to add your skills to the hobby if you decide to participate. If you can contribute, then please do so. If you just want to reenact, then be a professional soldier and conduct yourself with pride in whatever uniform you wear. Be honest, courteous, cooperative and OBEY the rules. Be especially conscious of the fact that you CAN injure someone with a rifle blank or grenade and ALWAYS bear that fact in mind—the dangers of the hobby are demonstrated at the safety meetings held before each event. All exploding devices are demonstrated. The test for grenades is simple: You stand over the device and set it off between your feet (The Highlanders hate this test!). All explosives must be entanglement if you are unaware of the “safe” paths approved and accepted by the majority and the or draw a hail of fire for having forgotten the majority always rules. In this manner, the majority “password.” You tumble back into the safety of your creates the event and you as an individual make the own lines and collapse on the muddy firing step to try decision to participate in that event. It is a and get a gulp of air, catch your breath and then a volunteer’s war, and in this hobby, that term takes long drink of water. Hopefully, the enemy won’t drop on a meaning as never before, because you are a mortar shell on your head tonight, or decide to gas responsible for the safety of everyone around you! your line—thus forcing you to don your stuffy and uncomfortable gas mask that is also impossible to The Origins of Great War Reenacting even see out of, let alone fight in it. The question has been asked MANY times. “Where If this madness appeals to your curiosity then you did all of this start?” The Great War reenacting idea might want to consider reenacting the Great War. It was born in a Civil War environment and slowly is all there for your enjoyment, and what you get out evolved through determination to reconstruct the of it is determined by what you put into it. Often, you positively unique and incomparable life of a World can live in a bunker for days without a bath or get War I soldier in the trenches. The first time the Civil drenched to the skin, muddy all over, and still fight to War reenactors saw a U.S. WWI uniform was at a hold or retake a section of the line during a downpour. New Market battle in about 1975 or 1976. For rather You will throw grenades into an enemy trench, take deceitful, dishonest and underhanded political
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 6 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 reasons, the “authentics” were banned from the perfected! After those events, these men were all battle, so they formed a “parade” to march down and determined to make WWI into a real hobby! I watch from the sidelines. At that time I was the First personally bought an MG 08/15 to add realism and Sergeant of “Sherman’s Bummers,” and had put my even the odds (although we were still greatly outnumbered by WWI Doughboy kit in the car to show someone. Well, the Americans) and I struggled for several years to get I ended up putting on the outfit and carrying the U.S. the gun operational with blanks. Remember that this Flag that led the procession. WWI was born! Enough was before anything was available or being people showed interest in doing something, that Paul reproduced. The Allies were flooded with recruits, as Smith, through John Lyle at Mt. Saint Mary’s US stuff was cheap and readily available, but the College, obtained a small section of land, on which Germans, oh but we had to struggle to obtain they dug same very crude trenches, and had the first anything. Some of us even carried and threw original battle on Sept 22-24, 1978. There were about 40 stick grenades while we played around with harmless Doughboys and 6-8 Germans (the original J.R.63 under Joe copies that would explode but not hurt anyone. Covais and Bill Combs). Alas, the Allies woefully walked all over the Germans, and a number of the Allies Danger?! decided to do German to help even up the odds for the Does all this mean you will get hurt? NO, but you next year. need to remember that this isn’t sitting in your armchair, watching safe television… it is living history. The WWI “living battlefield” concept is based upon the participant’s willingness to forgo selfish motives and accept what the majority wants. Changes can be made through proper legislation, but the majority still rules. This is an event where mortar shells can fall on your head, so you MUST always wear your helmet! The event is as REAL as possible and yet as safe as we can make it. Most SPORTS are more dangerous than our events, but the bottom line is that you, and you alone, are responsible for your actions at all times. If you cannot be an honorable participant and accept that responsibility, then do not do World War I. If you have any fear of getting cut with barbed wire, trampled-on, bombed, scorched, scraped, cut, or otherwise visited by minor injuries, then DO NOT DO THE EVENT! As in the real thing, your survival will be determined by your ability to avoid such injuries. You will be totally responsible for what happens to you, and what you do to someone else! All of this aside, you will soon become a “veteran” and learn to avoid these hazards while watching for grenades and bombs. If you are interested and want an opportunity to re- live this most harrowing time in history, then join us! However, PLEASE, accept the event for what it is and ADAPT yourself to it—do not expect WWI to change for you. Learn from experience, and listen to your NCOs. And please remember this: WWI IS NOT
FOR KIDS! (despite what your wife or girlfriend calls you). Garde Soldat at the „Ausmarsch“ —notice the flowers in his tunic, Gewehr and Pickelhaube. WWI is also not a “baby-sitting” service—you must be Foto aus des Max Stiebritz Sammelung 18 years old to participate in combat events. Equipment The following year, 1979, showed that with A caution to the new reenactor: you will trash proportionate sides, the reenactors could have a equipment, so do not use original uniforms and genuine ball! Few were there to enjoy “Root Hog Hill” equipment unless there is no repro item available (and and the assaults upon its bleak summit and it was it fast becoming true that almost everything is being reproed), in here that the art of stick grenade throwing was fact all participants are urged to use reproductions Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 7 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 where possible. Falling in trenches, sliding down embankments, charging over barbed wire, etc. does wonders for your gear. DO NOT TRASH ORIGINAL STUFF as your comrades will frown on that. You will find many serious students of WWI in the trenches, and in between battles, you will have an opportunity to get an education beyond your wildest dreams. We have doctors, lawyers, professors, students, and even the professionally unemployed—in fact, we have people from every walk of life and each one offers knowledge on different subjects. We all become one in the trenches and endeavor to relive an experience that ONLY Great War can give. After dark, the only missing elements are the real shells and bullets! Imagine the surprise when an SE-5 Biplane came out of the fog to strafe the Germans! The men on the ground thought they were in the Twilight Zone, as no one knew in advance of the preparations for the plane. It was a sight that few will forget, and was most certainly comparable to what the real doughboy felt when he saw his first plane! If you are an HONEST and SERIOUS student of history, or just a pure reenactment buff, and wish to CONTRIBUTE to the hobby by being a part of it, then join us. Do not just “take” from the Hobby, but “contribute,” even if it is only as a GOOD SOLDIER. Also, this is not a Stoßtruppen artwork from Osprey’s “The German Army 1914-19” spectator sport. We do not invite the public to our “combat” events—it is for us! We feel that the type of people event as “putting 10 Civil War reenactments into one we want will find us—sooner-or-later! We think of night.” It is a serious event, and you MUST enter into ourselves as a small fraternity where we can trust any it with full knowledge that you volunteered. For this “comrade” regardless of his uniform. The honor reason, you cannot show up and just participate by system prevails in this hobby—to break trust with the yourself. You must be sponsored by a UNIT who will system by stealing is the MOST serious crime on the vouch for your integrity and basic skills for taking field—it will be dealt with VERY SEVERELY. part in the event. The interest in this hobby is growing rapidly. Each new soldier, if properly A Responsibility motivated, brings to the hobby a personal quality that We, as participants, take on a very serious can only be shared and appreciated in like company, responsibility NOT to injure anyone in our play. thus, our hobby is a sharing of common interests. Be careful, be alert, and be responsible. Again, be sincere when contacting these people. Reenacting the Great War I makes Civil War look like child’s play and there is no comparison anywhere in With all this said, Welcome Kamerad! the WORLD! One new participant described his first
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 8 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 centered around mock combat; the main purpose of living history is education. Historical accuracy and safety are indeed the most important aspects of modern reenacting. The majority of today’s participants have a devout interest in the historical periods which they portray, and they work hard to recreate soldiers of yesterday as realistically as possible. To re-create these soldiers correctly requires diligence and a lot of research. Safety is especially vital since various pyrotechnic devices are used to simulate the weapons of an actual battle. So, if you’ve ever wondered about the life of of a Reenacting and the soldier in the Great War, come out with us and see a 3-M’s System reenactment or living history event for yourself. Our Main Activities ilitary reenacting is sort of an “interactive As members of a Living History group, we have two history lesson” for spectators and participants main activities: attending events and doing research. Malike. Unlike history books or documentary The events we participate in range from static films, reenacting attempts to provide first-hand, live educational displays to full-fledged battle experiences with a wide variety of military reenactments complete with trenches and a equipment, of the monotony of camp and garrison, battlefield. Our research efforts include not only and the tragedy and violence of combat. determining the correct uniform, equipment, and personal effects, but also in gathering as much oral history as possible from all sources.
The 3-M’s To do as accurate a presentation as possible, we have a rather simple philosophy: There are three main facets to a historical impression, and they all are of equal importance: Man, Minutia, and Methods—the “big three,” or the “3-M’s.” When we get too far advanced in one area, we try to stop and improve on one of the other two. Man refers to the person inside the uniform—without knowing something about the German man, you can’t really portray a convincing German Soldier. In this category, we include things like personal appearance, language, and Reenacting is Not a Recent Innovation mannerisms. Revolutionary War reenactments were staged in Minutia is all the “stuff” related to the soldier: commemoration of the U.S. Centennial in 1876 and uniforms, equipment, personal effects. A very numerous Civil War reenactments were staged for obvious and therefore important aspect,but by no (and in some cases, by...) veterans around the turn of the means any more important than either of the century. The only major change in the philosophy of other two. reenacting over this course of time has been the shift Methods are the ways in which the Man uses in emphasis away from spectacle and towards his Minutia. This includes drill, combat historical accuracy. This new emphasis was also the techniques, camp chores, unit organization, etc.. catalyst for the development of “Living History.” Unlike reenactments, living history programs are not
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 9 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015
Character of the German Army
(usually only one or two people qualified as “close”), soldiers, by Steve Fischer students, young people, and to animals. They 2./J.R.111 addressed each other as „Sie“ (you), while they addressed soldiers in the informal „Du“. Last names were used almost exclusively among soldiers, the first s reenactors, we present an name was only used in addressing one’s closest impression of what we believe the Kamerad (usually only one or two men—not your entire A German Soldat to have been. We Gruppe). spend time, and lots of money, buying our uniforms, weapons, and all the A Training Ground for Good Citizens assorted pieces of kit. The Army in Wilhelmine Germany held a central As reenactors portraying a foreign, position; the victory over France in 1871 had non-English speaking people it is enormously raised the prestige of the Army. Universal quite difficult for us to even get conscription existed, but in fact only about half those information on the character of the eligible to serve actually did so. The Army was used as German Army and the men we are a kind of “training ground” for good citizens; its trying to portray. Civil War reenactors conservative values were constantly reinforced. are blessed with an abundance of Soldiers were taught the value of Christianity and sources such as The life of Billy capitalism; they also learned to despise politicians and Yank, or Life of Johnny Reb. We businessmen. have no such sources; therefore it is my hope that the German society was very diverse, with many different following observations, derived from research, will be social groups or classes competing, but none clearly of some use in filling the gap. A list of relevant dominated. Officers from the Prussian states in reading material will follow, and although it may be eastern Germany were drawn largely from the difficult to obtain many of the books, they are well aristocratic Junker class of small land holders. In the worth it. One thing worth remembering is that most southwestern portion of the country, particularly in stereotypes of the German Army aren’t just Bavaria and Württemberg, over half the officers were exaggerated, they are patently false. drawn from the upper middle class. NCOs were First, German society was (and still is) very formal nearly always from the educated middle or lower compared to that in America. The familiar form of middle class. address „Du“ (you) was only used among close friends Three Social Groups The German military could be divided into three social groups: Mannschaften (enlisted men including Gefreiters), Unteroffiziere (NCO’s, who often aped officers, in dress and manner), and Offiziere (officers). Senior NCO’s, Vizefeldwebel (vice sergeant major), and Feldwebel (sergeant major) were authorized to wear an officer’s Portepee (sword knot).
True Professionals Although some NCOs no doubt were sadists, (such as the character Himmelstoß in All Quiet on the Western Front), the vast majority were competent professional soldiers. Brutality toward enlisted men was generally not
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 10 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 common. The army experience was to most men (prior method to a limited extent prior to the to the war anyway) a positive experience to be looked war but largely abandoned it during back upon with fondness. Military life instilled a bond the war. Instead, they relied on of Kameradschaft (comradeship) among the men. the self discipline of the German officers were highly trained and the men soldier himself, calling on his looked upon them for leadership. The “fragging” of sense of honor. General officers and NCOs believed to be so common in the Ludendorff “despised and regarded U.S. Army during the Vietnam conflict, was almost as ineffective any attempt to achieve unknown; equally rare was an insubordinate attitude social unity by force and drill.” among soldiers. German training focused on the practical aspects of drill, and The German army in 1914 was probably the best encouraged men to utilize their own trained and disciplined army in Europe, not initiative. withstanding claims to that title by the British. During the German soldier’s two years of service he In the British army, the NCO has often obtained a level of training which took the been called the “backbone of the professional British army five years to reach. During army” and there is considerable the war this level of quality declined, but up until truth in that statement. This was 1918 the army still maintained a higher standard of not true in the German army, discipline and training than the British. Among the although the German NCO exhibited considerable first things the German soldier was expected to learn professionalism and was highly trained in his duties. during training was the memorization of ranks, Charges of brutality leveled against German NCOs orders, responsibilities, and weapons nomenclature. stem from the pressure they were placed under to get In most armies, close order drill is used to instill a good report on their abilities. A good report would discipline in the men; the German army used this allow them to retire to the civil service after twelve years. Indeed, because of this pressure, the suicide rate among German NCOs was very high.
A Caste in Itself The German Officer Corps was a caste in itself in German society. During the war it consistently refused to allow officers to be commissioned who were thought to be unsuitable in social class or political outlook. German officers, like their soldiers, had a very high degree of training and professional competence, junior officers often commanded units which would be commanded by majors in the British army. The German doctrine of Storm Troop tactics was developed by a captain in the German army, something unheard of in the British army. Also of note is the fact that a German Colonel, Fritz v.Loßberg, was responsible for developing the defense in depth doctrine. German officers were expected to be able to perform the duties of the next rank over them; this was a regular feature of their training. Another feature of German training was the considerable reliance placed on junior officers in the performance of their assigned mission. The method used by the officers to complete their assigned task was left at their own discretion. They were encouraged to use their own initiative and take advantages of opportunities on the battlefield. This made the German command structure more responsive to battlefield developments than the French, British or American structures.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 11 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Some Observations on German Soldiers Themselves German soldiers were not expected to maintain their kit in the same immaculate condition expected in the British army—but neither were they sloppy, wandering around with everything unbuttoned—LOOK at the pictures. German soldiers were expected to keep their weapons in good condition, free from dirt and rust. They always carried their gas masks everywhere they went when near the front lines. Out of the line, the uniform was kept brushed, rips and tears were mended. Leather gear was kept clean and oiled. In general a good appearance was maintained at all times without going to the extreme of keeping every button done up and polished. One thing you’ll notice though, it is rare to see a photo of German Soldaten with his collar undone. Not to say it wasn’t done, just not that common—a different society.
When not on duty… Pastimes for the soldiers included playing Skat, a card game for three players which has a complicated scoring system that only a German would love. In rear areas, the army established canteens which were called a Soldatenheim and which served beer and provided entertainments for the soldiers of various kinds, similar to our USO. Another entertainment was Army-run brothels which were regularly inspected by the German Medical Corps.
Sources (yes, they’re links): In the Line, 1914-1918. by Georg Bucher (Translated by Norman Gullick); Jonathan Cape: London, 1932 The German Officer Corps 1890-1914 by Martin Kitchen; Clarion Press: Oxford, 1968 Imperial German Army Handbook 1914-1918. by David Nash; Ian Allan: London, 1980. Doctrine and Dogma: German and British Infantry Tactics in the First World War. by Martin Samuels; Greenwood Press: Westport, 1992. Fighting Power. by Martin Van Crevald; Greenwood Press: Westport, 1982. A Surgeons Story. by Stephen K. Westmann; William Kimber: London, 1968. (Westmann also wrote A Surgeon with the Kaiser’s Army)
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 12 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 A Few Basics about the Imperial German Army (11% of the army), Sachsen (Saxony) (7%), and by Stefan Fischer, J.R. 111 Württemberg (4%). All of the rest of the army was controlled by Preußen (Prussia) (78%), the dominant state. In time of war, all of the armies were united he idea of Germany as this big national under the command of the Kaiser, who was the “All- monolith is kind of a misnomer, because in 1914, Highest Warlord.” Actual operations though, were TGermany as a single entity really didn’t exist. directed by the great German General Staff. This is because as a compromise during unification, the King of Prussia became the German Kaiser The German army was composed of twenty-five army (Emperor)—not the Kaiser of Germany (a pointed corps, designated by Roman numerals. Each army distinction!). At the same time, this allowed the corps had its own district, from which it recruited its aristocracy of the other German states to retain their contingent of soldiers. Prior to the war the peacetime titles and privileges. strength of the German army numbered 34,870 officers and 663,578 NCOs and men.
Recruiting and Service Recruitment for the German Military was based on the concept of universal military service. This service was called Wehrpflicht, and it required every male to serve the colors (at least in theory) over a period of 27 years; from a man’s 17th birthday until his 45th. Upon reaching the age of 17, each young man was enlisted in the first Ban (level) of the Landsturm (territorial reserve). At the age of 20, he then began his period of active service, which was called Dienstpflicht, consisting of two years in the regular Army (three if in the Cavalry or artillery) followed by five more in the active reserve (four if in the Cavalry or artillery). After leaving the active reserves at age 27, the man was entered into the first Ban of the Landwehr (inactive reserve) and then transferred into the second Ban upon reaching age 32. At age 39 the man transferred into the second Ban of the Landsturm until his discharge at age 45. Not as complicated as it sounds, this system was intended to provide a regular army and a large reservoir of trained reserves who attended training sessions periodically during each year. Another category of recruit was that of the Einjahr- Freiwilliger (One Year Volunteers) these were young men of good birth and education who served for one year at The German Reich (Empire) was composed of twenty- their own expense; at the end of that one year they six states, four kingdoms, five grand duchies and were allowed to transfer to the reserves as a principalities, three free cities, and the imperial Fähnrich (reserve officer aspirant). During the war territory of Elsaß-Lothringen (Alsace-Lorraine). Three of another category was created, the Kriegsfreiwilligen the states maintained some measure of independence (war volunteers), young men who volunteered to serve and had their own armies, war ministries, general before their call-up. staffs, and inspectorates; these were Bayern (Bavaria) Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 13 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Although all German males were in theory obligated to do military service, large numbers never served at all. This was due in part to the large expenditures involved and also the fact that the Reichstag would need to approve the raising of additional troops. Another reason was the lack of officers of the required social class and the army’s reluctance to enlist urban workers, who it was believed would spread socialist ideas to the other recruits from rural areas. Despite not serving, those exempted were carried on the muster rolls of the first or second Ban of the Landsturm, or if they were between the ages of 20 and 32 they were placed in the Ersatz Reserve. When fully mobilized, the German Army consisted of active reserve regiments, supporting Landwehr Regimenter and the Landsturm (which only operated within Germany itself). Reserve regiments were intended to form duplicate regiments of the regular army, for example the regular Army Infanterie-Regiment Number 111 had as its counterpart Ersatz Infanterie-Regiment 111. The Ersatz Reserve was intended to form a pool from which replacements could be drawn for the Reserve and Regular Army regiments. In 1914 there were 218 Active regiments, 113 Reserve regiments, 96 Landwehr Regiments, but by 1918, this had increased to 698 active, 114 Reserve, and 106 Landwehr The Officer Corps regiments. The German Army was socially a very conservative institution; its officer corps was drawn primarily from the landed Junker class. In the years just prior to the war, increasing numbers of non-Junkers were permitted to become officers; this being due to the increasing population of Germany and the Junker’s low birthrate, which was making them a smaller and smaller percentage of the population. The officer corps was bound by oath and class to both the Kaiser and the nobility of the various German states. Although the officer corps was founded on birth, it also placed great importance on ability. It was just this factor of ability that allowed Erich Ludendorff, a commoner, to reach the high rank of Quartermaster General.
The Men The men who made up the German Army came primarily from rural backgrounds and were deeply patriotic. The urban recruits were a problem for the army because of the socialist leanings found in an industrial society. Service in the German military was looked on as an honor and the military had a high level of prestige. The military was also used to imbue the soldiers with the conservative beliefs of the ruling class. For more on the Character of the German Army, see the article by that name elsewhere in this in Handbuch.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 14 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Command of the Army two infantry, one cavalry and one artillery. Auxiliary Although troops consisted of three squadrons of Kavallrie command of the (cavalry), used for escort and Aufklärungs army rested with (reconnaissance); one or two Pionier companies who the Kaiser, the performed engineer operations, one or two companies German General of Sanitäter (medical personnel—usually stretcher bearers), Staff exercised and a bridging train. During the war, this basic actual organization changed into a “triangular” division, administrative which consisted of a brigade of three infantry command. Later regiments and one regiment of field artillery in three in the war, most battalions. Additional changes occurred by 1917; decisions were support troops consisted of two Pionier companies, a made by Minenwerfer company, and Scheinwerfer (searchlight) Generalfeldmarsc sections—medical support was also increased. hall (Fieldmarshall) Paul von Hindenburg and his chief of staff, Quartermaster General Erich Ludendorff and the Kaiser practically became a figurehead;. German armies in the field operated with two heads, the Army Group Commander, assisted by his Chief of Staff. This allowed many of Germany’s high nobility to actually lead armies, albeit with the aid of a thorough professional soldier, a good example of this being the Kaiser’s eldest son, Krönprinz Wilhelm.
Organization of the German Army The German Army was organized around the 26 army corps; these were each in turn, divided into two divisions incorporating infantry and cavalry, a Jäger battalion, a Bataillon Troß (Train battalion), a Pionier Bataillon (engineer battalion) and a Fuß-Artillerie Regiment (Foot Artillery). This organization was not always uniform for each corps, some had more of the support battalions, some less. The number of divisions in each corps often increased Manpower Shortages during the war and by 1918 it was not unusual to find 1917 and 1918 saw the faltering German war machine army corps with up to six divisions. Another thing calling up troops early and scrambling to relieve that increased the size of the army corps, were the manpower shortages. Many new divisions were new support units that became necessary because of created using those men who were too young and the changes in technology. Although covered later in those too old, as well as recovered wounded and this article, some of these support units were whole called-up factory workers. Divisions were rated as battalions of Gas Pioniere (gas engineers), whole First through Fourth class, depending upon their companies of Stoßtruppen (assault troops), suitability for offensive operations (First Class) or for Flammenwerfer units (flame-thrower), Flak (anti-aircraft) holding operations in quiet sectors (Fourth Class). units, Minenwerfer (trench mortar) units, and Luft (air) units. When the war began there were 50 infantry divisions in the army, two of elite guard units, and six in the Bavarian army. Divisions consisted of four brigades:
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 15 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Unit Breakdowns Brigades consisted of two regiments of either Infanterie, Kavallrie, or Feld-Artillerie. The Regiment was the primary organization to which the soldier owed allegiance; it was the Regiment’s number or cipher, which adorned his shoulder boards and the cover of his spiked helmet. The Regiment was composed of three Bataillonen (numbered with Roman numerals), I, II, III. Each Bataillion [das Bataillon] (battalion) was in turn divided into four Kompagnien [die Kompagnie] (companies). The Kompagnien were numbered 1 to 12 with 1-4 Kompagnien in I. Bataillon, 5-8 in II. Bataillon and 9-12 in III. Bataillon; the 13. Kompagnie was the heavy machine-gun company and was unattached to any of the three Bataillonen. The companies were further broken down into three Züge [der Zug] (platoons), each with four Korporalschaften [die Korporalschaft] (sections), which had two Gruppen [die Gruppe] (squad) of 8-9 men. In all, each company had 5 Offiziere (officers), 259 Mannschaften (enlisted men), 10 Pferde (horses), and four wagons.
Elite Units and Honorary Titles Regular German army regiments often carried honorary titles relating to earlier elite unit status, such as Grenadier, and Füsilier. Actual elite mounted Maxim ‘08 guns. The German army formations were designated as Garde (Guards), Garde appreciated the usefulness of machine-guns prior to Greandier (Grenadier Guards), or the Bavarian Leib the war; however even they were unprepared for the Guarde (body guards). In addition there were formations vast numbers of machine-guns that the war would designated as Jäger (lit.=hunter) or light infantry. The demand. In addition to the regular regimental Jäger were elite units composed of men skilled in machine-gun companies, special independent marksmanship and woodland skills and were also machine-gun companies were established. In late intended to give close support to cavalry. The 18 Jäger 1915 a lighter version of the MG ‘08 appeared, units were originally organized as battalions; later designated the MG ‘08/15. This gun was lighter and they were grouped to form Jäger-Divisionen, the mounted on a bipod. The ‘08/15 was distributed within Deutsche Jäger Division, the Alpenkorps, and the the various companies of each regiment. In 1916 200th Infantry Division. special elite machine-gun companies were formed— designated Maschinengewehr Scharfschützen-Truppen The Machinengewehr Units (machine-gun sharpshooter troops), these troops were armed Unquestionably the premier infantry weapon of the with the heavy MG ‘08 and were given special German Army was the machine-gun. Initially, training. German machine-guns were organized into special machine-gun companies armed with 6 heavy sled Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 16 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 The Pionier Bataillonen Before the war, Pionier (engineer) battalions were attached to each army corps and were responsible for bridging operations and other engineering projects. During the war, their role was expanded and they were called upon to train the infantry in their special skills. These included handling grenades, destroying barbed wire, use of Minenwerfer (mortars), and other technical skills. In addition, many of the new weapons were entrusted to the Pioniers such as Flammenwerfer (flame throwers), and early operations using poison gas. With their diverse skills, the Pioniere became the nucleus of the elite storm troops.
The Sturmtruppen Sturmtruppen (Assault or “Storm” Troops) and the tactics they employed became the hallmark of the German army in World War One. Originally raised as special Bataillions, their special skills were passed on and many unofficial storm battalions were created for special attacks and raids. Storm battalions were composed of young aggressive soldiers’ handpicked for their skills. They employed a large number of specialized weapons including grenades, light machine-guns, flame throwers, infantry canons, and trench mortars. They were shifted around the front and used for special assaults or raids. They were skillful at penetrating enemy trenches and returning with prisoners. Also called Stoßtruppen these men were often treated like star athletes and given better food and billets than the average soldier. In special schools they taught the infantry their skills of infiltration, surprise attack, and coordination of various weapons.
Kavallrie On a battlefield dominated by the machine-gun and artillery there was little place for the cavalry, although the German army (like all others) did contain many officers looking for excitement sought other many cavalry units. The 110 regiments of cavalry commands. The famous pilot, Baron Manfred von were made up of many different types, all equally Richthofen (the “Red Baron”) was originally an Uhlans archaic to the modern student of warfare. Dragoner officer before joining the air service. (Dragoons) were intended to fight dismounted, Uhlans (lancers) were armed with a rifle and a steel lance; Hussars (light cavalry) were used for scouting; Kürassiers, equipped with steel helmets and breast plates were heavy cavalry intended to charge into the enemy, and Jäger zu Pferd were mounted sharp shooters. On mobilization, 36 additional units were created. The German high command soon realized that this large number of men (over 100,000) was being wasted serving in the cavalry and also that the horses could be better used elsewhere. Many of the cavalry units were dismounted and served as infantry. Cavalry was still needed for scouting on the vast eastern front, but
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 17 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Artillery Unlike the cavalry, the artillery really came into its own during the First World War. German artillery was divided into two branches: the Field artillery, which consisted of light guns, and the Foot artillery which was made up of heavy guns of the corps and army artillery. In a war that made use of massive artillery bombardments lasting many days, artillery took on a new importance. The pre-war Field Artillery was organized into 101 regiments and the artillery school at Jüterborg. Regiments were divided into two Abteilungen, each with three batteries of usually six guns each. The normal armament of the Field Artillery consisted of the 7.7 cm Field gun. Some regiments were equipped with the 10.5 cm light field Howitzer instead of the normal The Fliegertruppe, supported both the Army and complement of 7.7 cm guns. The pre-war strength in Navy. The Air Service was divided into three arms, guns was 5,580 pieces; during the war the number of the airship troops (Luftschiff-Truppen), balloon troops Field Artillery units expanded, and by 1918 had (Feldluftschiffer-Abteilungen), and the flying troops (Flieger- 11,280 pieces. Expansion was achieved by production Abteilungen). Airship troops manned and operated as well as by pressing captured weapons into service. airships such as the Zeppelins, which made long range bombing raids and scouted the North Sea for Although organized into 24 regiments, the Foot the fleet. The balloon troops manned observation Artillery (heavy artillery) was allocated to different balloons suspended over the Front, which spotted for commands in batteries and groups of batteries. The the artillery. Flying troops operated reconnaissance Foot artillery’s principal weapons machines, which aided the artillery and took photos. included, 15cm heavy field Fighter squadrons defended the reconnaissance Haubitzer (howitzers), 10cm field machines and balloons guns, and 21cm Mörsers. During while attacking the war the types of guns available enemy increased as captured guns were observation pressed into service and aircraft and new larger pieces were balloons. Later developed. By the end of in the war huge the war the number of bombers were built for long distance guns had increased to bombing raids. eleven times the number at mobilization. Support Units The Luftstreitkräfte In addition to the main combat services described above, the army had vast numbers of support units The Imperial German Army such as transportation units, train units, signal Air Service, was founded in units, communication units, medical transport units, 1910 with the name Die hospital units, veterinary service, supply depots, Fliegertruppen des deutschen Military police, and Etappen (communications zone) Kaiserreiches, most which administered the occupied areas and controlled often shortened to Fliegertruppe. It was renamed the local population. These services were very Luftstreitkräfte by October 1916. The air war on the important in sustaining the war effort and allowed Western Front received the most attention in the the fighting troops to concentrate on fighting the war. annals of the earliest accounts of military aviation, since it produced aces such as Manfred von Richthofen, popularly known as the Red Baron, Ernst Udet, Oswald Boelcke, Werner Voss, and Max Immelmann.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 18 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Shortages and Ersatz Materials Often, despite the efforts of the support and supply services, German troops went hungry; as the blockade of Germany tightened, food grew scarce. The high command tried to ensure that the troops received priority in food allocation, but it was often not enough. Shortages in materials resulted in the use of many substitute materials, which were called “Ersatz.” Shortages in rubber resulted in aircraft landing wheels being made from wood, and rubberized gas masks were replaced with ones made from oiled leather. By the end of the war, cannon barrels were so worn that they often fired short and killed their own men. The German soldier continued on and fought well in a war that increasingly engulfed him and overwhelmed him. The Germans called the later stages of the war the “Materiálschlacht” (the war of material) meaning they were fighting the enemy’s overwhelming superiority of supply and resources more than the enemy troops.
In the End In the end, what mattered most to each side was material resources; bravery, courage, and honor were irrelevant in this impersonal war that brutalized the soldier. For over four years, the soldiers of all of the armies were forced to live in the mud, with lice, rats and filth. The battlefields of the First World War resembled, much more than anything, an open graveyard, full of unburied corpses. The proud German army of 1914 died in this hellish world and from it, a new hardened, brutalized army emerged in 1918—only to return home to even more privations and revolution.
References: Imperial German Army Handbook 1914-1918. by David Nash; Ian Allan: London, 1980. The German Army 1914-1918 by D.S.V. Foster and R.J. Marrion. Osprey Pub. Ltd.: London, 1978. German Stormtrooper 1914-1918 by Ian Drury. Osprey Pub. Ltd.: London, 1995.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 19 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Minutia Guidelines for the Essential Uniform and Equipment irst, our definition of “Minutia”: Minutia (also And remember the #1 known as “kit”) refers to any physical item which is Specialties rule when dealing with the F Most members brought to an event. This includes uniforms, German military: there insignia, decorations, gear, food, weapons, personal eventually find a are NO firm rules as to effects, etc. specialty which they uniformity—German equip themselves for, In this section, we will look at what goes into the soldiers were NOT that although they will uniform—this idea of proper “kit” for our organization. Kit refers to all the occasionally leave “cookie-cutter” all-the-same physical “stuff” which is brought to any event; not some of this specialty soldiers is more of a modern only uniforms and equipment, but also personal kit in their car if they U.S. military idea; it ain’t effects, food, decorations, etc. The kit we are talking are assigned to some how the German military about is the standard German infantry impression. job other than what was (or is even now today). Specialty impressions will be covered in appendixes to they have equipped this manual and will be supplied when needed. themselves for. Our Philosophy on Minutia How these standards relate to the individual Our policies about what goes into a kit revolve member is actually quite around three simple rules: simple: Every member should own at least the 1. That the items are historically proven to be Standard Field Kit. Then, correct for the reenactor’s (and/or our group’s) according to either the impression, positions available in the 2. that the item itself is close to the original in unit or a appearance and construction, and… temporary need, the 3. that the person or people concerned are member will qualified and historically correct to use or wear then either it. assemble one of There will of course, be cases where there is a lack the specialized of concrete information for us to make our judgments kits or be issued as to just which particular item is correct. In cases equipment to fill a like these, we will go back to one of our basic unit needed specialist role. policies: to portray the common soldier; i.e. we will Since members are choose whichever option would be the most typical. often temporarily In order to be truly historically correct, there are assigned to various some sacrifices we will have to make. For example, positions within the unit, many reenactors (and the original German soldiers themselves, and these positions require for that matter) expect a pair of jackboots to stomp different kits, the unit itself around in and give them that truly “German military” will try to take on the look. Unfortunately, Hollywood has done a lot for responsibility of issuing some perpetuating this stereotype. The fact is, however, of the specialized gear to the that jackboots were not all that common on German member when he is assigned to soldiers during the last years of the war. By 1917, the a particular job; so again, the kit true “German” military look would really have been which the member is obliged to ankle boots and puttees—why not have both? Often have first is the Standard Kit they did!. or “A-List.”
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 20 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 In regards to the actual articles we use in the field, we discourage the use of collectible and historically valuable original material. First of all, the old stuff is just not going to be as durable and simply won’t stand up to field usage. Second, original uniforms and equipment have historical value; once gone, gone forever! And third, it’s not authentic: the Kaiser’s Army was not, as a rule, issued 100 year-old gear! When it comes to insignia and decorations, our rules are also very straight forward; if you didn’t earn them in accordance with the requirements of our organization, don’t wear them. We will have special training sessions for people who wish to become proficient in one of the specialties, or a person can demonstrate his knowledge after conducting research in a particular area: if someone in our group is wearing some special insignia, then he knows something in accordance with that insignia! As far as pieces of gear or uniform which saw limited use, we will allow some leeway until our unit impression begins to suffer, in which case we may institute a lottery system based on the judgment of the unit authenticity officer.
Who Determined All this? Who determines what IS and is NOT correct here? Are you guys just making it up? No. The rules as to what is correct, comes from the GWA German Authenticity Rules which were written a long time ago. As of now, it is not linked across, but the plan is to have each item hot-linked to the pertinent section of the Authenticity Regs. Bear with us.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 21 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Standard Field Kit Lists for Mannschaften (Enlisted Men) e have broken down the soldier’s “kit” into two different “lists.” They are: W “A-List”—Items on this list represent the minimum kit required to participate in the typical living history event. Every member must possess the items on this list. “B-List” —Items on this list represent all the additional items needed to complete the impression. An important piece of advice (which is pretty much what this book is about): if you’re new to Great War reenacting, please don’t rush out and just start buying things immediately! The information in this manual is meant to establish standards for a Central Powers impression and give you an idea of where to look for the various items; what it can’t do is explain the finer details of construction, fit, or price. When in doubt, contact your unit authenticity officer or the CP Leadership—they will be happy to help you!
Follow the list and try and acquire the items in the order they appear on the lists!
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 22 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Some Quick Knowledge: Here’s some German terms for different parts of your kit. LEARN the German word— don’t use the English term. Yes, you can—it’s part of being a German reenactor.
1. Feldbluse
2. Hosen 3. Mantel
4. Feldmütze 5. Halsbinde 6. Hemd 7. Unterhosen
8. Marschstiefel 9. Schnürschuhe 10. Strümpfe 11. Stahlhelm
12. Koppel u. Koppelschloss 13. Patronentasche 14. Kochgeschirr 15. Brotbeutel
16. Feldflasche
17. Trinkbecher 18. Halstuch
19. Kamm 20.Burste
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We know, some of this is kind of foreign... yeah, that’s the thing, we’re not portraying Americans. Part of being a German reenactor IS knowing some German; using some German words. Make it a habit to learn AND USE the German words for your uniform and kit, just like we use our German names. Why else do you want to do this impression? Really, if you want to do it the easiest, German isn’t the impression to pick.
“Wow!” You’re thinking, “These guy’s are nuts.” No, we’re just trying to “be there.” This isn’t some demo for a bunch of bored touronz, it’s living history in the real sense of the word. We’re actually trying to get the feeling of being there and by these small actions, sometimes we make it! So jump on in, the water’s fine and we think you’ll enjoy it—it’s what we do!
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 24 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Minutia Guidelines for the Essential Uniform and Equipment There will of course, be cases where there is a lack of concrete information for us to make our judgments as to just which particular item is correct. In cases like these, we will go back to one of our basic unit policies: to portray the common soldier; i.e. we will choose whichever option would be the most typical. In order to be truly historically correct, there are some sacrifices we will have to make. For example, many reenactors (and the original German soldiers themselves, for that matter) expect a pair of jackboots to stomp around in and give them that truly “German military” look. Unfortunately, Hollywood has done a lot for perpetuating this stereotype. The fact is, however, that jackboots were not all that common on German soldiers during the last years of the war. By 1917, the true “German” military look would really have been ankle boots and puttees—why not have both? Often irst, our definition of “Minutia”: Minutia (also they did!. known as “kit”) refers to any physical item which is F brought to an event. This includes uniforms, Specialties insignia, decorations, gear, food, weapons, personal Most members eventually find a specialty which effects, etc. they equip themselves for, although they will In this section, we will look at what goes into the occasionally leave some of this specialty kit in their proper “kit” for our organization. Kit refers to all the car if they are assigned to some job other than what physical “stuff” which is brought to any event; not they have equipped themselves for. only uniforms and equipment, but also personal How these standards relate to the individual effects, food, decorations, etc. The kit we are talking member is actually quite simple: Every member about is the standard German infantry impression. should own at least the Standard Field Kit. Then, Specialty impressions will be covered in appendixes to according to either the positions available in the unit this manual and will be supplied when needed. or a temporary need, the member will then either Our Philosophy on Minutia assemble one of the specialized kits or be issued equipment to fill a needed specialist role. Our policies about what goes into a kit revolve around three simple rules: Since members are often temporarily assigned to various positions within the unit, and these positions 1. That the items are historically proven to be require different kits, the unit itself will try to take on correct for the reenactor’s (and/or our unit’s) the responsibility of issuing some of the specialized impression, gear to the member when he is assigned to a 2. that the item itself is close to the original in particular job; so again, the kit which the member is appearance and construction, and… obliged to have first is the Standard Kit or “A-List.” 3. that the person or people concerned are In regards to the actual articles we use in the field, qualified and historically correct to use or we discourage the use of collectible and historically wear it. valuable original material. First of all, the old stuff is just not going to be as durable and simply won’t stand up to field usage. Second, original uniforms and
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 25 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 equipment have historical value; once gone, gone forever! And third, it’s not authentic: the Kaiser’s Army was not, as a rule, issued nearly 100 year- old gear!
Not Allowed: Per the GWA German Authenticity Regulations, wear of the following “specialty insignia” on any tunic is NOT authorized: • flag/standard bearers’ insignia • insignia for gun layers (artillery) • signaller insignia • fencing proficiency insignia • Kaiser’s shooting prize • shooting awards • Schützenabzeichnung (lanyard) • Kaiserabzeichen Special Distinctions for: • Infantry Instruction Battalion • NCO schools and preparatory schools • Military Riding Institute
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 26 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015
Standard Field
Kit Lists for Mannschaften (Enlisted Men) We have broken down the soldier’s “kit” into two The „A-List“ Items Essential for Participation: different “lists.” They are: This kit or the “A-List” is the basic impression we do, and care should be taken to build it properly. This kit was issued “A-List”—Items on this list represent the to almost every soldier in the German Army and is the minimum kit required to participate in the minimum needed to participate. typical living history event. Every member must possess the items on this list. 1. Tunic (Feldblusen, Waffenrock) “B-List” or “The Complete Soldat”—Items on 2. Trousers (Hosen) this list represent all the additional items 3. Boots (Marschstiefel) (or shoes and needed to complete the impression. puttees—Schuhe) Detailed descriptions and sources for the items on 4. Helmet (Stahlhelm) the different lists will be found under the appropriate 5. Shirt (Hemd) item numbers in following pages along with a vendor 6. Neck Stock (Halsbinde) from the Source List Sadly, there will be no “approved 7. Soft cap (Feldmütze) vendor list—just too many “minefields” there. Just 8. Gasmask with can (Gasmaske) look at photos and check against what the vendor 9. Canteen (Feldflasche) sells... You’ll be able to tell what is good and what is not. If all else fails, ask your unit commander. 10. Belt and buckle (Koppel u. Koppelschloss) An important piece of advice (which is pretty much 11. Cartridge pouches (Patronentasche) what this book is about): if you are new to Great War reenacting or new to our unit, please don’t rush out 12. Breadbag and breadbag strap and just start buying things immediately! The (Brotbeutel u. Riemen) information in this manual is meant to establish 13. Entrenching tool w/carrier standards in our unit’s impression and give you an (Schanzzeug) idea of where to look for the various items; what it 14. Mauser 98 rifle with sling (Gewehr 98) can’t do is explain the finer details of construction, fit, (see separate weapons section) or price. When in doubt, contact the authenticity officer or one of the experienced members—they will 15. Bayonet, Frog and Knot (Seitengewehr be happy to help you! u. Troddel)
Items essential for living in the field Follow the lists and try and acquire the (meaning that you should TRY and get them): items in the order they appear on the lists! 16. Mess tin and fork/spoon combo (Kochgeschirr u. Essbesteck) 17. Shelter-half/poncho (Zeltbahn)
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 27 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Personal Effects hese were items which the Frontsoldat required for
Tkeeping his uniform clean or mended, items to help him pass the time, or just personal things which the soldier felt he had to have. Aside from the personal effects which the reenactor is required to have, there is a wide variety of things which are appropriate. Be careful, though; there is a tendency for reenactors to carry more personal effects than would be typical of the Frontsoldat in the field. On the other hand, if you need to take certain personal effects to an event, make an attempt to replace them with WWI substitutes. Why? Well picture this for instance: It’s early morning at one of our events and the “troops” are just venturing out of their Zelts and bunkers. There are some muttered German greetings. Some trench cookers are fired up and some ersatz coffee is started to brew. After a few bites of authentic Frontsoldat breakfast fare, there will be a few minutes to clean up before morning Appell. Out come the straight razors and aluminum soap dishes as the men begin their morning absolutions. OH NO! What is THAT? A fluorescent orange, weirdly shaped toothbrush is pulled out into view and the spell and aura are destroyed! This historically-challenged not so much so. Just cast about so that what you carry moment could have been prevented simply by buying is correct for the period—it’s so easy to find little a $6 bone-handled period toothbrush. trinkets at flea markets, garage sales and antique malls. Where can you find these period personal effects? Some things, like the old-timey toothbrush, can be Period civilian pictures, a linen handkerchief or two, purchased from reenactor supply houses that a pencil and note pad maybe a trench lighter or match specialize in other periods that predate WWI (Rev safe… Pocket knives were common, as would be some War, Silly War, usw.). Most of the other pieces you period money and maybe a letter or three from home. will find at rummage sales and flea markets. It’s just a matter of building another life in your pockets. Just like in real life, you will find that you end-up filling your pockets with stuff, some of it useful, some of it
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 28 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 uniform: The overall length is long (not waist- Feldblusen height, but crotch-height or lower), the arm holes are small and the back is narrow. This gives the (Waffenrock)—The Waffenrock or Feldbluse (called a wearer the overall feeling of smallness in the “tunic” by collectors and most reenactors) is one of arm and shoulder area and a form fitting feeling the most important parts of your impression—it’s in the body. This feeling is commonly mistaken what people see first and it greatly influences their by reenactors as the jacket size being too small. opinion of you and the unit. Your tunic should be This is because modern garments (with the acquired first and with the utmost care. exception of fine Italian or European suits) are Note: These uniform jackets do not fit anything no longer made to this form fitting method and like a civilian suit or any current service uniform no one is used to this feeling. of any nation we know of. The following are the As we have seen in earlier articles, during the Great key fitting elements of the WWI German War there were three basic styles of tunics used by the German Army—the M.1907/10, the Transitional and the 1915 “die Bluse”. Either the 1910, 1915 or Transitional patterns are acceptable for use in the GWA. Each must exhibit the appropriate buttons and fastenings as well as numeral or cypher shoulder boards, with proper Kompagnie buttons (depending on your group).
Important note: DDR tunics, Swiss tunics, converted U.S. Marine Corps overcoats, Swedish tunics (converted or not) or careless reproductions (Hong Kong Keith, etc.) of any kind will not be allowed. All reproduction tunics must match the cut, color and fabric type of the original issue. Again, if there is any doubt about what this entails, contact your Kompagnieführer or the GWA CP Authenticity Officer for details before purchasing a tunic or attempting to make your own—this is SO important — please, don’t disregard this advice!!!
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 29 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 regimental number shall be ‘chain-stitched’ in red wool yarn on the epaulets; If the unit wore a cypher, it shall be done as the original. Also needed are two Kompagnie # buttons for the Achselklappen. More later
M.1907/10 Waffenrock (M.1910 Waffenrock)—The 1907/10 Waffenrock (usually just referred to as a „Rock” or “1910”) was the uniform that the German Army wore when it went to war in 1914 and it continued to be issued or reissued throughout the conflict. The back of the 1910 has a scalloped tail with hidden pockets. This tunic also has exposed brass imperial crown buttons throughout, and has red piping around the collar, down the front fly, around the cuffs and along the back scallops. The 1910 Rock shall have the following specific unit details: For Prussian units, the sleeves shall have the “Brandenburg” style cuffs and scalloped tail. The epaulets (Achselklappen) shall be of the same shade as the tunic and piped in white (the Waffenfarbe for Infantry). The
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 30 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Original MINT, unissued Crown button, showing how it would look lacquered and, as issued.
Another couple of original lacquered crown buttons left is a Saxon button, right Prussian
Bavarian buttons detail
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Side and back hook details on M.1910 Waffenrock
Rear vent details on a Bavarian M.1910 Brandenburg cuff details on a M.1910 Waffenrock Waffenrock
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Details showing the differing models of cuff styles (the “French cuff” was only worn by members of Garde Schützen units.
A set of un-lacquered buttons and back hooks, as they come. These need to be A: Infanterie back hook. B: Back hook for Field Artillerie and “worked on” (Tross) Train hook. Make sure you get the correct hook—the Tross hook doesn’t hold the belt properly and often makes it fold over in half.
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Bavarian NCO showing Tresse and Bavarian Braid
Bavarian tunic... note buttons.
Above: Bavarian braid Below: NCO Tresse
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 34 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Achselklappen Here are some unit shoulder straps for example -- we hope to have photos of an original board from EACH unit in the GWA that is portrayed. Most are here now.
Original J.R. 63 Original J.R. 63 Original J.R. 23 Original J.R. 63 Original J.R. 459 Achselklappen Late-war and Achselklappen Royal Cypher Achselklappen Greatcoat 1918 Achselklappen
Original 20. Repro Original Bavarian Repro Original MGSS J.R. 92 Leib Rgt. 5. Sturmpionier J.R. 120 Late-war and Achselklappen Achselklappen Achselklappen Achselklappen Greatcoat Achselklappen
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K.R. 8 Original J.R. 124 Original F.R. 90 Repro J.R. 124 12. Minenwerfer mock-up Cypher Achselklappen Numbered Achselklappen Achselklappen Achselklappen Achselklappen
Original F.R. 73 Repro Repro Achselklappen J.R. 129 R.I.R 236 Achselklappen Achselklappen
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 36 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 elimination of all piping (i.e., on the collar and front) and exposed front buttons. The Bluse was closed by a fly front, which utilized horn buttons, saving the army eight more metal buttons per garment. Even this was not original; the Litewka—a pre-war optional informal tunic-had a fly front. The tunic retained the side and back (see below) hooks, and the lining details were unchanged. There were only four metal buttons used on the Bluse, two for the shoulder straps and one for each hip pocket flap. They were the smaller size, and of a new pattern which could be stamped of iron or steel better than the earlier pattern. They were slightly domed, rimless, and had a large pebble-design crown on them. The belt ramps were likewise in this pattern (though the larger size of a normal button), and the use of company number buttons on the shoulders was supposed to be eliminated. To brighten the otherwise drab appearance, the Bluse was to have a resedagriin collar (reseda, in its pure form, is a vibrant grey-green; in practice, collars were of various shades, ranging from pure grey to olive). Specialty insignia (e.g., standard bearer patches, shooting prizes, marksman lanyards, etc.) were no longer permitted on any style tunic.
Insignia Shoulder boards on the Bluse can either be white piped with the numeral/cypher ‘chain stitched’ in red wool yarn; as with the 1910, M.1915 or... they can be unpiped as was „Die Bluse“ done very late in the war. (M.1915 Die Bluse)—As the war dragged on, it became apparent that the 1910 Waffenrock was a peacetime luxury that was just too complicated and expensive for wartime manufacture. In September 1915, a new uniform Rock called the „Bluse” was introduced. With the Bluse, the shiny brass buttons and conspicuous red piping of the earlier Rocks were eliminated. Its design was also simplified to reduce manufacturing expense The introduction of Die Bluse (blouse), which was to be of a universal design for the entire army irrespective of branch of service. Made in a darker feldgrau color (which varied throughout the war from light gray to an almost black colour, depending on where it was made and what colour wool was available), the major change from the tunic that had evolved in early 1915 was the
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Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 38 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Collar Detail
Pocket detail
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 39 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Insignia The epaulets (Achselklappen) shall be of the same shade as the tunic and piped in white (the Waffenfarbe for Infantry). The regimental number shall be ‘chain-stitched’ in red wool yarn on the epaulets; If the unit wore a cypher, it shall be done as the original. Also needed are two Kompagnie # buttons for the Achselklappen. More
Model 1910 Vereinfachte (Simplified) Feldrock
(Also called the M.1914 Transitional Tunic by collectors and Volk) Although the M.1915 „Bluse“ was supposed to replace the M.1910, it took some time for production to get going and in the meantime, cost-saving measures were begun by modifying the 1910 into what collectors call the “Transitional” tunic, a type widely manufactured in 1915–16. This was the first war-time change in the look of the German Army. This tunic has features of both the 1910 and the M.1915 „Bluse“. Some of the features that are normally found on a transitional tunic include turnback cuffs, exposed buttons, red piping on the front and collar, and no back scallops.
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Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 41 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 there was a small slash watch pocket on the right waist. Beginning several inches below the top edge, a line of ponceau piping ran down the side seams of each leg. Trousers were lined at the waistband generally with materials similar to that used in tunics. Along the upper edge—which was usually unfinished (raw)—zinc dish buttons were spaced to provide attachment points for the suspenders; there were no belt loops. Bottoms were turned inward, and the hem was usually quite deep.
A Change On 27 August 1914, the following changes to the field uniform were ordered: Trousers were in the future, to be made of steingrau (stone grey—a charcoal shade) material vs. feldgrau (field grey). This move had been in discussion before the war in that trousers and tunics presented a poor match since the trousers faded more rapidly from rougher wear and more frequent laundering. As such, a contrasting shade was chosen, removing the need to match existing garments. The pattern remained otherwise unaltered.
Trousers (M.1915 Tuchhosen)—The trousers were made of the same field grey material as the tunic and cap. They were basically straight-legged, fairly narrow fitting, and were very slightly flared through the thighs. They had a fly front closed with horn buttons. Cut with a very high waist—they came almost to the bottom of the rib cage—there was a belt from side seam to side seam across the rear that permitted finer adjustment at the waist. On the front, inserted at an angle, there was an internal slash pocket on each side. Small horn buttons closed these. Additionally,
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 42 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Our Requirements Trousers must be of either feldgrau (fieldgrey) or steingrau (stone grey) material with red piping down the outside seam of the leg. The Hosen must be cut to the correct pattern. An adjusting belt in the rear, a watch pocket and slanting slash pockets in front are characteristics which should be present. Also worn, were the privately-purchased „Cordhosen“ or „Manchesterhosen“ (corduroy trousers), these were both legal and popular among the Soldaten. Manchesterhosen were cut to the same pattern as the regular Hosen. **Breeches are not allowed for enlisted use as they were only issued to enlisted personnel who were part of a mounted unit. Breeches were not worn by line Infanterie troops with the possible exception of some officers and senior enlisted NCOs — who purchased them privately.
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Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 44 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 M.1866 March Boots or M.1901 Ankle Boots (Marschstiefel oder Schnürschuhe)—Often referred to as „Knobelbecher“ (or “Dice-Shakers”) by the Frontsoldat, the M.1866 Marschstiefel should be of brown or black leather. A rough side out finish was more common on wartime boots than a smooth side out finish; therefore, a rough side out finish is preferred. The Marschstiefel should be at least 14" tall, with single or two piece insteps. The Marschstiefel also must have seams up the side of the boot, as this is exhibited on original issue Marschstiefel. Square, boxed or pointed toes are unacceptable, as are rubber heels and soles. The M.1914 ankle shoes (Schnürschuhe) should lace well up onto the ankle. On both types of boots and shoes the soles shall be of leather and hobnailed. Heels must also be made of leather and set with hobnails or horseshoe plates. It should also be noted that French ankle shoes and British “ammunition boots” were widely used by German troops, therefore the wearing of either is most acceptable if your unit allows them.
M.1893 Schnürschue
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Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 46 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Puttees (Gamaschen)—Members wearing Schnürschuhe should also wear puttees or „Gamaschen“ made of web or bound woolen strips colored feldgrau, stone grey, black or brown. Distinguishing features of German Gamaschen include a large hook for attaching to the shoe at one end and a strap with a buckle or an S-hook at the other. Often, Gamaschen were also made from blankets cut into strips.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 47 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 the leg. Ne c’est pas? Rolling the Wrap Now it’s time to learn yet another secret—how to roll the puttees for storage. For when it IS time to Puttee store the dry puttee, it is rolled up with the tape end in the center! The tape hangs free as the puttee is carefully rolled without wrinkles upon itself. When by “Pick Mattock” the puttee is completely rolled up, the tape is wrapped Reprinted from On the Wire, Vol. 1, No. 1 without wrinkles, perpendicular to the cylinder: i.e. across the top, down the curved side, across the bottom, and up the curved side, then neatly tucked Seldom-failing mark of a newcomer to Great under itself! War reenacting is by looking at how the man’s A puttees are wrapped: If white socks show or the An awful lot of words to explain such a simple thing, fellow looks like he has both legs curved the same but then, some of you blokes ‘ave an orful ‘ard time way, then you’ve got a tenderfoot. The solution is getting’ an idea into yer loaf a’ bread. simple: Wrap your puttees the way the experts do. The secret is to begin your wrap at your ankle, above the shoe top or overlapping the shoe top just a bit. The end of the puttee should be placed upon the inside of the ankle, or perhaps just in front of the lacing of the shoe. Experience will soon show you which area is better so that the upper end of the wrap finishes at the side or rear of the calf out of sight. Then, begin wrapping the puttee downward. That’s right, downward. Cover the shoe top and the bump made by the knot of the laces. (The laces have previously been tucked into the tops of the shoes so they won’t show below the puttee) When you have reached the top of the instep where the shoe begins to swell outward broadly, wrap the puttee neatly and parallel with the ground, then start up the leg. Each turn should be about 1 inch above the bottom of the previous wrap. The rolled puttee should be pulled tautly away from the leg to maintain tension on the wrap. This gives a tight fit, which will: (a) hold the puttee to the leg, and (b) give support to the calf of the leg. The final wrap should be neatly parallel with the ground, with the 1-inch tape band lying neatly upon itself in the center of the wrap, and the free end tucked neatly under the tight band. The triangular point of the wrap should be out of sight on the side or back of the calf, as mentioned before. Now take a look at yourself in the mirror. Dummkopf, did you wrap both legs from left to right? Always wrap from the inside of the leg, around the front, toward the outside of
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 48 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Our Requirements All must have a M.1916, M.1917 or a M.1918 Stahlhelm, which will be worn during all mid- and late-war scenarios. In Great War reenacting, we wear a Stahlhelm for a reason—WW1 reenacting has working mortars! The chinstrap and liner must be of the correct pattern for the Stahlhelm worn (i.e. M.18 chinstrap with the M.18 Stahlhelm). Helmet covers, if worn, must be good reproductions of the original German issue. Repainted helmets will be feldgrau color and of the proper finish (no black painted Stahlhelme, etc.).
Der Stahlhelm (Steel Helmet)
M.1916, M.1917 or M.1918 t the beginning of the Great War, the German Army wore the „Helm“ or Pickelhaube (as we
Acall it today). Made of formed leather with metal trim, the Pickelhaube offered the wearer little or no protection against shrapnel, the by-product of the ever increasing use of artillery. Soon, the number of soldier’s with serious head wounds due to shrapnel mounted. These head wounds were found to be far worse than other types of wounds because even if they did heal, they often left the man incapacitated and unable to function. The rising numbers of serious head wounds caused the German High Command to search for a solution. After much testing and study, the M.1916 Stahlhelm (steel helmet) was issued in limited numbers. With the Stahlhelm, a marked decrease in the shrapnel head wounds was quickly seen and soon, almost all the Frontline units were issued Stahlhelme, beginning at Verdun with its mass introduction to the units fighting there. With the Stahlhelm, the whole look of the German soldier changed—to a look we associate today as “the” German look. No one knows how many lives were saved by the introduction of the Stahlhelm, but it can be assumed to be a very high number.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 49 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 handkerchief or piece of cloth can be placed in the A Brief History of dome for warmth in cold weather. The chinstrap, when not used, was to be pulled-up over the visor of the German Steel the helmet. Helmet
by Reinhard Keller, Great War Militaria
he model 1916 German helmet was a ground- breaking innovation—designed to protect the
Twearer from small shell fragments that would normally wound or kill. The M.16 Stahlhelm was adopted in November 1915, with the first test production and trials successfully conducted by both the Sturm Bataillon „Rohr“ (the 1st Assault battalion) and various other assault battalions (to the envy of regular army troops who “borrowed” many of them from the assault units) at Verdun in Nov/Dec, 1915. Production began in M.16 “Brow-Plate“ detail January 1916 with 30,000 helmets (Eidenhuttenwerk/Thale) made and issued to the assault battalions at Verdun, with full adoption of the helmet „Sniper“ Armor for both assault battalions and regular field armies in Initially, 5% of all helmets were to have the February 1916. accompanying protective nickel-steel armor “brow” plates, but this was never accomplished due to Design Features shortages of nickel which was needed in the production of the brow plate. The brow plate lugs of the M.16 helmets show a distinctive “step” as the helmet becomes smaller in size. This “step” is to accommodate the width of the armored brow plate which was made in only one size. Priority was given to German soldiers on the Somme and Verdun for the new helmets. The French captured their first German helmet and front plate in March of 1916. The U.S. military received a captured helmet from Paris in February 1917 after their request to the German military attaché in Berlin was denied due to “Patent right problems!” In May, 1917, due to leather shortages, the all- leather liner was changed to a metal band with Plugging the vent lugs during cold weather leather pads. In many instances, troops polished their helmets with grease or oil for inspections, parades, and other functions. By November, 1917, a non- The new steel helmets were made in sizes 60 to 70 reflective paint was being applied to reduce the glare (approximately 19¾” head to 27½” head in ¾” increments), with of the initial gloss paint. The demand for steel the maker and size stamped inside the left shield and helmets continually exceeded the supply, thus steel lot numbers inside the top. For correct fit, the helmets were always kept where they were needed, visor is to be level to the eyebrow and a space with none taken home on leave (thus the rarity of studio maintained between the head and the shell (to absorb portraits with steel helmets). It’s interesting to note that as impact) with use of pads, cloth, or paper strips. late as February, 1917, Pickelhauben (leather spiked Ventilation of the Stahlhelm is through the visor helmets) were still being withdrawn from the front shield lug holes, which can be stuffed with wood, lines as the steel helmets became available. paper or dirt during inclement or windy weather. A
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 50 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 neck shield over each ear appeared. Otherwise identical to the previously mentioned redesigned helmet, it is believed this experimental variation was designed to improve hearing and limit the concussive effects of explosive blast while wearing the helmet. Needless to say, these M.1917 and M.1918 Stahlhelme “cut-out” Stahlhelme are not only rare, but real ones are also VERY expensive—late war One of the first visible modifications to only! the Stahlhelm was the M.1917 liner— this went from a leather band, to a Helmet Covers metal bad, which not only saved scarce most leather, but also made the liner work Long an informal practice in the field ( had been made of burlap from sandbags better. ), issue helmet covers were produced for the attack divisions In the final months of the war, the that would lead the March 1918 steel helmet was redesigned slightly. “Kaiserschlacht” offensive. Constructed of grey, The old method of attaching the grey-green, or khaki colored drill, they were chinstrap—which had been unsatisfactory at attached to the helmet with a series of hooks along best—was discarded. The new helmets (which collectors the lower edge. Most had holes for the helmet’s call the M.1918) were produced without the chinstrap ventilation lugs; these were often reinforced with attaching lugs on the helmet curtain; instead, the leather. chinstrap was attached directly to square swivel-loops on the M.17 helmet liner ring. An improved chinstrap with a carbine hook allowed the strap to be tightened, then removed via unsnapping the clip without the necessity of readjusting the fit each time the helmet was put back on. Several weeks before the end of the war, a variant of this helmet with “cut- outs” in the Helmet vent lug details. • The type A lug is for a size 60 Stahlhelm, • the type B lug is for a size 62, • the type C lug is for a size 64, • the type D lug is for sizes 66 u. 68.
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. Achtung! Stahlhelm Size Chart The Stahlhelm was made in six different sizes and you must make sure that you get one that fits you correctly! The size of the shell can be found stamped into the left inner-side of the neck apron. When worn correctly, the visor should be level with the eyebrows; this height can be adjusted somewhat with the liner. Shell Size Head Size 60 50.0 to 52 cm. 62 52.5 to 54 cm. 64 54.5 to 56 cm. To figure out your 66 56.5 to 58 cm. size, simply take 68 58.5 to 60 cm. a cloth tape measure, and 70 60.5 to 62 cm. using the metric side, measure around your head above the eyebrows.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 52 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 M.1916 Helmet liner detail Here is a great detail graphic of the M.1916 liner, different than the one shown in the helmet cut-away art in that it has a leather band that the “fingers” are sewn to. *Sometimes the Frontsoldat would substitute a wound-dressing packet or two for the liner pads.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 53 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Camouflage In July 1918, the value of camouflage (whose purpose was to make an object appear shadowed by its surroundings) was recognized. It is our firm belief, based upon the various similar patterns on helmets in the GWM collection and those sold through our catalog, that distinctive camouflage patterns placed on steel helmets were often unit individualized, not only as a mark of “esprit de corps,” but to recognize members (or parts of) from your own unit. There can be little doubt that several unit members who had some artistic talent were “detailed” to paint the helmets, and thus many distinctive individualistic and unusual patterns were bound to emerge as a part of the painter’s personality or whim. Of course, as with ALL things concerning the German Army, there are exceptions; a prime example being Stahlhelme (pl.) with the black lines all ran down because the painter used too much paint—yes, there were messy Germans too. Also, many helmets were painted after the war for “souvenirs” (and thus the birth of “camoed” trench art U.S. helmets done in the same styles). After this, paint and instructions for the painting of helmets was distributed to front line troops. The colors of green, yellow ochre, and rust brown (to be mixed or used “as is”), were to be applied according to the “time of year” with one of the three basic colors matching the surrounding area. “patches” were to be large equalized portions with sharp angles with the front of the helmet exhibiting no more than 4 colored fields. Light and dark paints were to be placed next to each other, with colored segments separated by a finger wide black line. This color scheme was adopted for cannons, mortars and machine guns also, with lighter colors to be used on top (shadow) and darker paints on the horizontal.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 54 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 55 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Postwar Fakery An authentic “wartime” camo German helmet can only be ascertained by its traits of provenance, and the experience gained in years of handling original and reproduction helmets. The paints used in WWI were distinctively different than the paints of today, but not impossible to match. One trait displayed by old paint is that it takes a very long period of time to cure and obtain traits that can be recognized after that hardening process. Often the problem is telling exactly how old the paint on a helmet is, and if it was done properly 20 years ago, it could pass for WWI. Painting of helmets to pass as originals is still a fairly recent trend, and properly matching the factory colors from WWI is still difficult, as you need to know the colors that were produced. But as the years go by, and if the fakery is done correctly, helmet collectors in the future are going to have to be very careful!
Repro Stahlhelme Here, are a couple photos of the common Indian repro Stahlhelms that really need a lot of work to fix. Sure, you can buy one, but it’s WRONG. The bill is too long for starters, which means either you or a metal worker buddy will have to trim the front bill down and then fold the metal over. Kind of a lot of work. Just buy a real one from John Dubbs or a good repro.
The chronological dates in this short summary of the German helmet are taken from Ludwig Baer’s The History of the German Steel Helmet 1916- 1945 J. Bender Publishing, 1985. Much of the art comes from Stahlhelm, Evolution of the German Steel Helmet by Floyd R. Tubbs.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 56 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 The simple issue shirt is the best bet, and if you Shirt cannot find an issue shirt, you do have the option of wearing a correct period civilian shirt, which may also (das Hemd)—The German issue shirt is made of a be added to their kit. Another option is the wear of a white or off-white cotton drill material and was cut grey wool collarless shirt (British “greyback”) which was long. Part of the shirt’s purpose was as a nightshirt. trimmed in white, this was a common style of non- Waist-length shirts (like tunics) are not authentic issue shirt used by soldiers. One other known (That means WRONG! Don’t buy a “German” shirt that is wait- frontline practice was simply wearing long-john’s length.)—even if using a civilian shirt. (look at the photo on underneath the tunic. the next page) Times were different—go with it... and do your own research. Don’t believe a vendor telling you waist-length shirts are okay—they aren’t. And, a waist-length shirt pops out and doesn’t stay tucked in and is annoying. The Hemd was issued to all soldiers, but… being Germans, these soldiers often augmented their uniform with civilian clothing items. The wear of civilian clothing items was somewhat common among other nation’s soldiers, but was also quite unlike the U.S. military practice of having identical soldiers— things like this are sometimes hard for Americans to grasp as it is just such a foreign concept… Just keep rememberin’: The Germans AIN’T Americans! and you’ll do fine.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 57 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Original joke photo showing the true length of the Hemd.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 58 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Neck Stock (Halsbinde)—The Halsbinde was a particularly “German” invention which meant to protect the collar of the tunic from wear; not as is commonly thought, to prevent the collar from chafing the Soldat’s neck. The comfort of the Soldat was not considered to be particularly important; more so was the need to preserve the uniform Indeed, in many cases, the tunic lasted longer than the Soldat, as evidenced by the wartime re-issue of tunics of those soldiers who had died in hospitals. The Halsbinde is worn tied around the neck. The left end is slipped through the slit and is tied underneath the flap. They are available in different sizes and lengths and should be grey-colored for wear with the field uniform. The Halsbinde worn with the work uniform was black, and some black/white and black/grey reversible types have been found.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 59 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 the German Army during WWI—this kind of thing was ignored. Soldiers were issued what was available and serviceable—unless you are doing an early-war impression, it is not really important to match your tunic and Feldmütze.
M.1910 Field Cap (M.1910 Feldmütze or “Krätchen”)—The Feldmütze is a pillbox shaped cap of feldgrau wool. The Infanterie style Feldmütze has red piping around the crown and a red band around the base. The 1915 „Einheitsfeldmütze“ is authorized for use at mid- and late-war events as well. This cap was intended for use by all branches of service and therefore the piping was in „resedagrün“ (pea green), as was the band. Both types of Feldmütze must be complete with both National and state Kokarden (cockades) on the front. The National Kokarde is black/white/red and is sewn above the state Kokarde (see chart). The Kokarden must be the type for enlisted use and, they must be the sew on „Mannschaften“ (non-NCO enlisted) version, not the prong back type which is the pattern for NCOs. *A note: it is a FELDmütze or Mütze (Felt-myut-zah), not a “mootz”. Please! Ugh.
Ideally, in a reenactor “stitch-nazi” fantasy, your Feldmütze should match your tunic type (i.e. a 1910 tunic with a 1910 grey Feldmtze with a red band or a Bluse with a Einheitsfeldmütze), but in the real world—especially in
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Bavarian Feldmütze (notice lower Kokarde, which is Bavarian)
Prussian Einheitsfeldmütze (notice lower Kokarde, which is Prussian)
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 61 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Feldmütze Band-Cover (Abdeck Band)—To help conceal the red band of the Feldmütze, covers were made of a strip of feldgrau or light-grey cloth tacked (loosely sewn) directly to the cap. These covers were also made of a light webbing with an adjusting buckle in the back (usually this style was tacked on with thread to the Feldmütze also, as otherwise, they tend to fall off).
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(Imperial German Cockades) Großherzogtum Baden
Art by Christian Gollmar
ne of the neat things about the German
military was that each state had its own Großherzogtum Mecklenburg-Schwerin OKokarden (cockades)... No, we don’t reenact each of these different states, but it’s neat to know. From the left, is the Offiziere (officer’s) version, then the Unterffiziere (NCO) pin-on and last, the Mannschaften (enlisted) sew-on version.
Großherzogtum Hessen
Deutsches Reich (National)
Großherzogtum Oldenburg
Königreich Preußen (Prussia)
Großherzogtum Sachsen
Königreich Bayern (Bavaria)
Großherzogtum Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Königreich Sachsen
Herzogtum Braunschweig (Brunswick)
Königreich Württemberg
Herzogtum Sachsen-Meiningen
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Herzogtum Anhalt Fürstentum Schaumburg-Lippe
Herzogtum Sachsen-Coburg und Gotha Fürstentum Reuß (ältere Linie)
Herzogtum Sachsen-Altenburg Hanseatic (Hamburg, Lübeck
Fürstentum Lippe Bremen
Fürstentum Waldeck
Fürstentum Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt
Fürstentum Schwarzburg-Sonderhausen
Fürstentum Reuß (jüngere Linie)
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 64 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Gas Mask and Gas Mask Cannister (Gasmaske und Gasmaskentragebüchse) — Gas masks became standard issue to German troops in August 1915. There are two kinds of repro Gasmasks that reenactors will see (and use) and that’s what we’ll cover here: The Gasschutzmaske M.15 (Gummimaske to collectors and reenactors) and the Gasmaske M.17 (Lederschutzmaske to collectors and reenactors; not being reproed at this time).
The Gasschutzmaske M.15 The Gummimaske was made of impermeable rubberized cotton fabric. The stamped round metal frames in eye glasses were made of unbreakable and non-combustible celluloid. The mask was held on the head by two elastic bands. A neck strap allows the gas mask to worn ready for use. Initially, the mask was stored in fabric-covered, twisted piano wire springs which, it the breadbag, then later, a gray canvas bag was was said, were as good as the earlier elastic tape. introduced. In 1916 the storage can carried in the Although ingeniously designed, the Gasmaske M.17 canvas bag was fitted with two straps, sometimes (Lederschutzmaske) was inferior to the earlier made of „ersatz“ paper-cloth. The original paper-cloth Gummimaske The leather was smelly and rough, it straps were strong and durable but over the years, was also stiffer and a good fit was therefore more have become fragile and will no longer hold-up in the difficult to achieve. The Lederschützmaske did not dry trenches! Soldiers were also issued an extra filter with quickly and could not be patched with rubber solution, a cloth carrier worn on the belt. and had to be carefully stowed in its canister to avoid chafing the seams. As if this were not enough, the Changes and the Gasmakse M.17 As the war progressed, the effects of the British blockade were felt and Germany ran short of rubber., The rubberized cotton fabric of the Gummimaske began to be replaced by chrome-tanned sheepskin, bought from Bulgaria. The first step was to dip it into sealing oil to render it waterproof. Next, a single piece was cut from the hide and rolled into a cone and cut in three places. Then the seams stitched and lacquered. The seams were cut to allow the lenses to stand clear of the face like goggles. The eye pieces were double-layered (celluloid and cellulose acetate respectively) and coated on the inside with gelatine to prevent misting-up. The coating replaced the wiping folds of the fabric mask and so reduced the dead air space in the mask. The face line was made airtight by
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 65 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 eyepieces angled differently from the Gummimaske which the solders had become accustomed. One could get used to that but aiming was difficult. Note: After 1916, you would rarely have seen frontline Soldaten with a full beard. Generally, men were either clean-shaven, had moustaches or, at the most, had a goatee. This can easily be substantiated by looking at period photographs; the reason for this being so that the Gasmaske would seal properly to the face. The Tragebüchse is a short, circular canister with a wire clip latch. It has a two part carrying strap, sometimes made of „ersatz“ paper-cloth. It is important to remove original paper-cloth strap from the Tragbüchse—although strong and durable when new, original paper-cloth becomes fragile over time and they will no longer hold-up in the trenches! Soldiers were also issued an extra filter with a cloth belt carrier worn on the belt. Each member shall carry a proper WWI German Gasmaske (either original or good repro) with the appropriate canister. The spare filter carrier is optional. This is NOT WWII reenacting, members need to have
Inside of early Gummimaske canister.
If you are interested in the history, design and wear of the myriad of German gasmasks, I would suggest La Guerre Des Gaz 1915-1918 by Patrice Delhomme available exclusively from Great War Militaria. There is also an Osprey book called World War I Gas Warfare Tactics and Equipment. Last, there is a good article by Randall Chapmann of IR63 in their newsletter -- I’m sure he would send to you.
and carry a gasmask! Important: It is a very good idea to remove and disassemble the original filter on your mask and clean out the interior, as they occasionally still have traces of poison gases such as phosgene in them. If you happen to breath in this gas residue, it can still damage your lungs even after all these years! Also, asbestos was used as one of the filter components and should therefore be removed.
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Gasmaske 17 and Tragbüchse
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Gasschutzmaske M.15 and details
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 68 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Canteen (Feldflasche)—The Germans used a number of canteens and most are authorized for use at GWA events, but the ones you will usually see (and that are reproed) are the early war M.1907 screw-top Feldflasche and the M.1893 model Feldflasche. Either type must be complete with the proper pattern leather harness and cover. The cover may be made either of feldgrau wool, brown corduroy or ersatz papercloth. Medical Feldflasch are only to be used for medical impressions. *Note: WWII canteens are unacceptable for use in the GWA (please see GWA uniform regs). Replica M.1907 screw top Feldflaschen are allowed IF they are of a correct pattern. Be careful as some repros are made of some weird pot metal that corrodes badly...
M.1907 Feldflasche with wool cover.
M.1893 Feldflasche with wool cover.
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M.1893 Feldflasche with corduroy cover.
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Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 71 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 M1895 Belt and Buckle (M.1895 Koppel und Koppelschloß)—The military cartridge belt with a buckle bearing the proper inscription for the state you portray: Prussia: „Gott Mit Uns“ (God is With Us) was a long-standing symbol
Original Koppel u. Koppelschloß courtesy of WWW.pommerschespionier.com/
of the Prussian Army. Bavarians wore “In Treue Fest” and Württemburg troops wore “Furchtlos Und Treue” Other states wore different mottos. Belt The Koppel was worn by itself or with varying amounts of equipment hung on it. When the Koppel was worn with the tunic, it was held in place by four metal hooks which were attached to the tunic, two on the sides and two (made in the form of buttons) in the back. This was sufficient for light duty; however, the increased weight of a combat load of ammunition required the use of the breadbag strap (Brotbeutel Riemen) which was looped around the neck and hooked to the cartridge pouches. The Koppel was issued in varying sizes. Minor size adjustments to the belt (for when wearing the greatcoat, etc.) could be made by moving the buckle along a strap sewn to the inside of the belt. The Koppel shall be made of leather, colored black or brown on the outside, natural leather inside, with the rough side out, and have an adjustment tongue. Buckles may be made of brass or feldgrau painted steel and must be of the proper WWI pattern for your state.
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Prussian feldgrau-painted steel Prussian early-war tombak and nickel Prussian bare steel
Bavarian early-war tombak and nickel Württemburg early-war tombak and nickel Saxon feldgrau-painted steel
Hessen brass Back side of buckles view Mecklenburg brass
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 73 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Cartridge Pouches, M.1909 (Patronentasche M.1909)— The M.1909 Cartridge Pouch is made of leather. It has three separate pockets, each holding 15 rounds of rifle ammunition attached to three separate stripper clips (Ladestreifen) with five rounds each, making a combined total of 45 rounds per pouch. On the back of the pouch there are loops through which the uniform belt slips and a ring into which the breadbag strap, or Tornister shoulder straps, may be hooked to help support the equipment worn on the belt. Normally, two pouches are worn, one on each side of the belt buckle, allowing the Soldat to carry 90 rounds of Each member will wear two M.1909 Patronentasche ammunition. of brown or black leather. The use of Peruvian issue pouches, which are similar to original WWI German issue, is allowed at this time; however, the use of Turkish pouches is only allowed to be used as a temporary measure (don’t get tricked into buying a set of Turkish pouches, besides which they reek of something real nasty.). German WWII pattern pouches are not acceptable at all for WWI infantry use. Reproduction pouches are available now and the use of repro pouches is HIGHLY recommended. A set of repro pouches is your best bet as, with care, they will last for years and you won’t be trashing a part of history.
How to wear with Breadbag Strap (see bottom pp. 75) 1. Snap hooks on the breadbag strap hook into rings on the back of cartridge pouches. 2. The breadbag strap passes behind the neck, under the collar of the Feldbluse to support the cartridge pouches.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 74 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 M.1887 Breadbag and Breadbag Strap (M.1887 Brotbeutel mit Riemen)—The German Soldier wore the Brotbeutel on his right hip, suspended from the belt. This cotton duck bag holds toilet articles, the Feldmütze when not being worn, rations, and other necessities of life for the German soldier. There are several models of the breadbag, the basic ones will be described here. The Brotbeutel is made with a single piece of cloth for the front and back that was sewn together so it narrowed somewhat near the top. The flap was then put on. The flap has a single “D”- ring near the top left side (A) and a leather tab near the bottom (B) which allows the Soldat to attach the Feldflasche to the breadbag. Three adjustable leather straps hold the flap and inside bag closed. The bag itself is divided into two compartments by the use of a The breadbag must be of ochre or feldgrau color, piece of matching cloth. Two button-down belt loops with a single “D” ring and loop. WWII issue are located at the upper edge near the corners of the Brotbeutels are not acceptable. Other breadbags of breadbag and a metal belt hook riveted to a strip of similar but not the canvas material is attached to the top center. identical construction are likewise
Unlike the WWII practice, the First World War German Soldat was not issued “Y” straps for his equipment waist belt. Instead the breadbag strap (Brotbeutelriemen), hooked to each cartridge pouch and passed under the collar and behind the neck to serve this purpose. German WWII issue breadbag Riemen are virtually identical to those used in the Great War, and as such, their use is allowed and encouraged.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 75 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 unacceptable. Certain surplus breadbags may be converted to WWI appearance by making modifications (BGS and DDR). Check with your sponsor or the Kompagnieführer before buying a Brotbeutel. Do NOT pay someone $70. for a breadbag!!!
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 76 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Entrenching Tool and Carrier (Schanzzeug und Schanzzeugtasche)—As the Great War devolved into sustained trench warfare, the entrenching tool became more and more important. The Schanzzeug that the ordinary Infanterie Soldat carried was the short infantry shovel (Kleines Spaten für Infanterie). The Spaten had a straight handle with a ball shaped end. The blade was square shaped and usually had one edge sharpened which made it into a very deadly trench weapon. One Soldat in 19 was issued with the Combination Pick-Axe (Beilpicke für Infanterie). Also issued were Wire- cutters (Drahtschere), Field Hatchet (Feldbeil für Infanterie), Pionier Saw (Pionier Faltsäge), long Pionier Shovel (Pionier Spaten) and Pionier Pick (Kreuzhacke). Regulations said that each Kompagnie was to be issued 100 Kleines Spaten, 13 Beilpicke and 5 Kreuzhacke with covers. [The amounts of the other entrenching tools are not specified, but can be assumed to be on par with the Beilpicke.] Soldiers should have a proper M.1887 Infantry Shovel and its correct leather harness. Original Schanzzeuge are, of course, acceptable along with similarly constructed Swiss, French or other European entrenching tools. East German shovels are acceptable as long as they are of the type with the shovel blade riveted onto the head (as opposed to its being welded on). If you would like to carry one of the alternate entrenching tools, you must first get permission from your unit leader. All entrenching tools should be able to be used for the task they were designed.
*Other entrenching tools (including photos) will be covered, in-detail, in the appendices.
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1. M.1874 Spaten 2. M.1874 carrier 3. M.1898/09 Spaten 4. M.1909 Carrier
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 78 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 M.98/05 Bayonet and Bayonet Frog (Seitengewehr und Koppelschuh)—An enormous variety of bayonets are known to have been used by the German Army during the Great War. The M98/05 “Butcher” pattern Seitengewehr quickly replaced the earlier S.98 “feather’ or “quillback” bayonet as that model was fragile and broke easily in use. In 1917 the high command sent down an order that ALL Front line troops would carry the Butcher bayonet, as it was “the” bayonet of the fighting soldier. Each Seitengewehr must be complete with its appropriate scabbard and frog. The Seitengewehr scabbard should be either blued or painted (black or feldgrau) and both scabbard and blade will have no rust spots upon it. The Koppelschuh should be made of brown or black, rough-side out leather with white linen thread.
**The “Sawtooth” pattern Butcher Bayonet should not be worn, as its use was unofficially banned during the war. The French and Americans tended to execute on the spot any German soldier captured carrying a “Sawtooth” pattern bayonet, as it was believed those bayonets would cause a wound that would not heal. *Other Bayonets such as the “Feather-Needle- Quillback, ersatz models and modified captured varieties will be covered in the appendices.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 79 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 A small note: the grip and guard should be blued, whilst the blade should be left in the “white” or unfinished. The scabbard should be blued or alternately, painted black or feldgrau.
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 80 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 81 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Bayonet Knot (Troddel)—Knotted around the bayonet frog, the Troddel has its origins in the saber knot, which was used to keep the saber attached to the Soldat’s hand in combat. By the time of WWI, the Troddel had merely become a part of the complex system of insignia that the German Army used for unit identification. Gefreiten (pl.) and Musketiere (pl.) should take care to wear only the Troddel signifying their Kompagnie (see chart). Unteroffiziere (pl.) and Sergeanten (pl.) should wear the Unteroffiziere Troddel, which is made-up of black and white threads for Prussian, blue and white for Bavarians, etc.
Green and white Troddel (Saxony), Blue-magenta-white Troddel (Mecklemburg), Black and white Troddel (Prussia), Blue and white Troddel (Bavaria), Black and Red Troddel (Württemberg) Photo courtesy of one our Kameraden in the DSM 1870-1918 e.V.
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Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 83 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 M.1910 Mess Tin (Kochgeschirr, M.1910)—The M.1910 Kochgeschirr is a two piece pail (with a kidney shaped cross section) that fits and latches together. They were made of enameled steel, feldgrau painted steel or blackened aluminum. The top has a bail (handle) (A) attached to it that keeps the Kochgeschirr closed when it is folded over the bottom part. The bottom is deeper than the top and has a wire handle to carry it with. Some versions have notches stamped into the bottom part to hold the Eßbesteck (combination fork/spoon) to keep it from rattling around inside. A 1930’s German political Kochgeschirr is identical to the WWI style and therefore is acceptable to use. Up until 1916, the large M.1867 tin Kochgeschirr was still in use.
WWII, DDR, Swedish or Bundeswehr tins (which are several inches shorter than the WWI type) are totally unacceptable — just get a real Kochgeschirr, a Third Reich political messkit or.... There are now good Combination repros on the market (Hessen), so you don’t have to drop $80. for a messkit. Don’t buy stuff you ain’t gonna be able to use! Spoon/Fork (Eßbesteck)—Each German Soldier was issued an Eßbesteck, a combination folding spoon/fork. This handy item is usually stored in between the lid and body of the Kochgeschirr. Either the more common tinned steel version or the early war versions in aluminum are acceptable. There are repros, but some are in stainless steel, which isn’t really correct—perhaps they can be tinned?
Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 84 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Other uses for Zeltbahnen include: dugout door flaps M.1892 Zeltbahn and ground cloths for playing Skat or sunning themselves. When fording a river, the soldier’s (M.1892 Zeltbahn)—The Zeltbahn is one half of a uniform and equipment could be placed in the small tent, consisting of a square-shaped piece of Zeltbahn and floated across. Zeltbahns also could be canvas with 32 opposing pairs of buttons. The Zelt folded and buttoned, two large poles then slipped also has small cord loops sewn onto it, through which through and the Zeltbahn became a stretcher. Finally, the tent ropes are threaded so that they can tie the Zeltbahn could serve as a shroud for a dead around the neck and waist when using the Zelt as a soldier; with a macabre sense of humor, German raincape. Zeltbahnen can be assembled in troops nicknamed their Zeltbahns Heldensarg (hero’s combinations of 2 or more to make a huge “Boars shroud), Krematorium (crematorium) and Leichentuch Nest.” Zeltbahns were manufactured in two different (funeral shroud). colors—ochre and grey. At the start of the Great War, Zelts were of a dark ochre color. As the war progressed, the color was changed to a less conspicuous grey color. Although grey-colored Zeltbahns are preferred, early- war ochre colored ones are just as acceptable. The Zelt must have all the proper buttons, grommets and loops and be of the correct measurements to attach to other standard Zeltbahns.
The Zeltban The Zeltbahn is an item every German soldier (and German reenactor) should have as part of their kit, the Zeltbahn served many practical purposes other than simply decorating the top of their M.95 Tornister (pack). Up until about the middle of 1915, Zeltbahnen (that’s the plural of Zeltbahn, so calm down) were produced in russet brown (red ochre), matching the breadbag and strap. After 1915, all three were produced in varying shades of feldgrau. The Zeltbahn measures about 158 cm. x 158 cm. (63” x 63”). It is constructed of cotton duck, the quality of which declined after 1915. The four sides have buttons and buttonholes along them, allowing many Zeltbahnen to be joined together to form very large tents. The corners each have 4 grommets for attaching cords, etc. Across the middle of the Zeltbahn are sewn five loops, and seven loops are sewn in a semi-circle at the top, which serve as a mount for the neck cord and waist cord when the tent is used as a rain cape. The English term “shelter quarter” is misleading when used to describe the Zeltbahn’s use as a part of a tent. With buttons and buttonholes on all sides, Zeltbahns could be combined in twos to form a “pup tent,” or as many as 20 could be combined to form very large tents. For use with the Zeltbahn, each soldier carried a bag in his pack that contained three stakes, three poles, three short cords and one long cord. Central Powers Handbook — Great War Association 85 of 86 Updated: 4/6/2015 Zeltbahn Art by Steve Fischer
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