Frohen Valentinstag!

Catalog No: WH0790

This post is dedicated to my loving partner, Roxii Skye, to who I Love deeply and appreciate everything that she does for me. Roxii from the start has had a significant impact on my outlook on my collection and been by my side through some of life's hardest points. Roxii continues to support me in KB41 Collection attending fairs and events with me and actively helps in sourcing and sales of KB41_Shop. I will forever be thankful for her input, and whilst she is still learning from me and the history surrounding the photographs and the support and love that Roxii gives is something I could only have ever dreamt of. I am forever indebted to her and dedicate this post to her on this special day.

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The photograph here shows what is believed to be Nachrichtentruppe des Heeres, of Regiment 63 of the Heer (Army). This translates as "Signal troops in the army" of which Signallers were attached to all Wehrmacht and SS units in someway, being permanent from 14th October 1942, by order of the Oberkommando Der Wehrmacht (Military High Command) enjoying some relaxed drinks in a pub or restaurant. The exact date and location is unknown but suggested to be Pre or Early World War 2. The Soldaten, believed to be Signalers are seen here are wearing their M35 Waffenrock uniforms. The M35 waffenrock was a smart parade and ceremonial uniform. The young signalers likely have been involved in a local ceremony or parade and have taken to the bar after the event to continue celebrations. This is seen by the number "63" on their shoulder boards. This was a early war uniform specification that was changed as the war developed. The colour of the "Waffenfarbe" which is the colour of piping on shoulder boards, M35 Waffenrock's and on their Litzen worn on their collar tabs would all be a Lemon Yellow colour as this is the colour associated with Signals within the structure of the Wehrmacht.

The role of Nachrichtentruppe des Heeres, during World War 2 was to allow different units and branches to communicate and co-operate so that effective warfare could be planned and implemented down the chain of command as well as allowing frontline news to be easily communicated and support for frontline soldaten to be received and orders given to allow the Wehrmacht and SS forces to progress efficiently. This was communicated across apparatus such as telephones and Radio's. Of which such Nachrichten units could establish and maintain. Nachrichten units played a vital role in allowing communication between attacking and defending forces so that they could not only deploy and be aware of enemy presence but allows units such as Artillery and Aufklärungs to be aware of eachother's movement on the frontline.

The signalers are seen celebrating together; cuddling, cheering and toasting their glasses together. The decor of the bar or restaurant suggests to us today that they would be celebrating Valentine's Day or possibly a wedding or engagement. But Germans during the Third Reich period did not in fact celebrate Valentine's day. Valentines Day didn't become a recognised day until after World War 2, so the exact function that is occuring is unknown. But what is clearly seen is a couple in the centre, which is surrounded by great friends and Kameraden. Food on the table suggests that their may have also been a banquet at this event, being concluded with flute glasses possibly filled with Sekt. Sekt is a sparkling wine that is popular in Germany.

Occasions for friends and family to get together were a much cherished moment whic h is why such events were often photographed. These memories being held onto by both Soldat and family alike. With the Family missing the Soldat when in service, being able to see them in uniform whilst they are not preset with them allows for a present connection to be made in which would give great comfort and pride of their loved one in service. Whilst the serving soldat could reflect that it was not a long time ago and would greatly boost their morale in low points of loss of kameraden in the field. The reason why they continue to fight each day, for their loved ones at home. Love being the strong factor that unites us all.