Vol 1-3 30-07-07
Vol 1-3 30-07-07
ORGANIZATIONAL SERIES
Volume 1/III
Volume 1/III
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Dr. Leo Niehorster was born in The Hague, Netherlands of an product manager for long haul travel in the world’s largest tour
American mother and Dutch father. He has lived in Holland, operator in Hannover, Germany. He spends most of his spare
Peru, England, Mexico, Canada, the United States, France, and time involved in military history.
Germany. His university education has been correspondingly
diverse. The University of the Americas in 1964 to 1967, The author is a recognized authority on World War II German
University of Maryland (correspondence courses while in the ground forces organization, and has put all of his expertise into
US Army) from 1968 to 1972, European Business School 1972 the present series. Some of these books are a republishing of the
to 1976 (BA in Business Administration), Frankfurt Fachhoch- original series, (which have been out of print for several years),
schule 1978 (Dipl. Kaufmann), Columbia Pacific University and they have been enhanced and augmented, encompassing a
1978 to 1980 (External MA in Business Administration), further fourteen years of research and study in the German,
Columbia Pacific University 1980 to 1982 (External PhD in American, and British archives. The revised editions as well as
History). His vocational training includes a course resulting in the new volumes in the series will be highly welcomed by all
the degree of Telecommunications Systems Developer. He is interested in German military organization in World War II.
also a licensed Apple Service Technician.
Dr. Niehorster’s previously published works include “The
The author did his military service in the US Army from 1968 Royal Hungarian Army, 1920–1945”, which was acclaimed as
to 1972, ending up in Germany, where he stayed. one of the Top Ten Books of 1999, and is considered by many
experts to be the single most important English language
His professional career started as night shift supervisor in an history on the Hungarian Army. As of 2004, he also coedits the
airline catering service, and has spanned such activities as ongoing “German Army 1939-1945: An Order of Battle” with
pizza baker at the local Italian in Barstow, California, to Lowry Cole.
1.09.1939 3
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
The August 1939 mobilization of the German Armed Forces appears The non-divisional units (Army Troops, Corps Troops, and General
to many as a typical example of German planning and efficiency. In Headquarters Troops) were tools used by the German Army to form
fact, the mobilization plan used was originally designed and scheduled and support concentrations of offensive or defensive forces at critical
for a later date, and some of the units designated were not in fact sectors and main points of effort. They included the heavy artillery,
mobilized, whereas others were mobilized but under different names combat engineers, tank and antitank, infantry, and antiaircraft combat
and designations, and under improvised staffs. During the 1939 arms, and also a vast array of noncombat units.
September Polish Campaign, many units were being raised, converted,
amalgamated, dissolved, etc. Units in East Prussia were less mobile Information regarding the German Army non-divisional units has also
than the other units, in most cases having very few or no motor been difficult to acquire. First, on 14.04.1945, most of the war diaries
vehicles, in some cases having their own organization. and records of non-divisional units were destroyed in a major Allied
air raid on Potsdam, where the main German military archives were
The higher headquarters in 1939 all had more or less fixed located. Second, obviously with a very few exceptions, GHQ unit
organizations, including their own units. Prior to mobilization, each histories have not been published. Hence, information regarding most
Army had been organized into a so-called “Paket”, indicating is a units can only be found in footnotes or mentions in divisional
fully constituted Army Headquarters with its own assigned Army histories, war diaries, and weapons books. Third, although sometimes
Troops (Armeetruppen) as well as attached General Headquarters orders of battle indicated GHQ units, this is the exception rather than
Troops (Heerestruppen). The 3rd Army in East Prussia deviated the rule. Campaign histories are an even more unrewarding source for
somewhat from the standard owing to its isolated geographical GHQ units.
location. The Corps also had a standard organization with their own
fixed Corps Troops (Korpstruppen). Non-divisional units were continually reassigned to different
formations and commands, and often had to scrounge for needed spare
After the 1939 September Polish Campaign, just about all of these Army parts, ammunition, supplies, and other necessities. They were trained
and Corps Troops were transferred to the GHQ (Heerestruppen) Troops. for and expected to operate independently. The unit commanders, (for
battalions usually majors or lieutenant colonels), were expected to be
Static units included such formations as the Border Guard – including able to assert themselves against divisional and regimental
Border Guard Infantry – Fortress, Landwehr, Landesschützen, and commanders. These higher commanders were in turn enjoined by
Wach units; engineer demolition, bridge guard, and blocking units, standing orders to consult with the unit commanders regarding the
as well as construction staffs and battalions. Although some of the tactical capabilities and use of their specialized units, which had to
static units in the East participated in the initial attacks, they soon excel in the use of their own specialized equipment, that of commands
returned to their start out positions after the first breakthroughs, as to which they were assigned, and be able to mesh the two into an
their service units were minimal, not being geared to mobile efficient combat tool. Independence, initiative, and intelligence were
operations. Hence, subordination and organization of these units prime requisites for commanders to lead these units in continually
changed almost hourly, certainly daily. Many staffs and units in the changing environments and situations, and they were particularly
fortresses and Border Guard were either not mobilized, or quickly selected for their aggressiveness in an already aggressively trained
converted, amalgamated, dissolved into other units. army.
Original documentation regarding the static and fortress units is This book draws on the official German tables of organization
extraordinarily difficult to locate. The Fortress and Border Guard (Kriegsstärkenachweisung), orders of battle (Kriegsgliederung), and
organizations as depicted in this book are based on the original Army Publications (Heeresdienstvorschrift). Material in archives in
Mobilization Plan for 1939/40 as amended up to July 1939. For their various countries has been extensively researched. The published
mobilized status during August and September 1939 secondary material contained in the sources and references section indicates
sources such as Tessin, Keilig, Mueller-Hillebrand had to be used to publications which were consulted, (although not necessarily used),
a large degree. and is basically meant to assist the reader in familiarizing himself
with the subject of the German Army of the period.
Neither soft-skinned motor vehicles nor indeed much other equipment
was ever produced by Germany in sufficient numbers to satisfy the In a project as immense as this one, it is necessary to rely upon the
needs of the tables of organization. Indeed, considering the early direct assistance of others. I would like to mention the following for
mobilization and the state of German rearmament, it is doubtful if any their valuable assistance: Piet Duits; Thomas L. Jentz; Brün Meyer;
unit ever had the exact number and certainly not all the types of William Russ; Adolf Schönefeld. To all of them, my continuing
vehicles and equipment on 1 September 1939 as prescribed by the thanks.
then valid KStN.
The author apologizes for any mistakes that have happened during
The war diaries of Halder, Chief-of-Staff of the OKH from 1939 – this process, (they are only my own), and welcomes critical comments
1942 (OKH = German Army High Command), and the official war and suggestions. Should any reader possess more founded information,
diaries of the OKW (OKW = German Armed Forces High Command), or even the original documents thereto, I would appreciate hearing
are both full of remarks about the serious lack of equipment, specialist from them, so that in a future edition, the corresponding corrections
personnel, and vehicles of all sorts, including armored vehicles. can be inserted for the benefit of all.
Dates are indicated in the following manner: Day.Month.Year. (Thus (medium) refers to a civilian (rear-axle-driven) load carrier with a load
1.09.1943 is the 1st Day of September 1939). factor of between 3 to 4.4 tons. Halftrack (7) refers to the 8-ton halftrack
(Zugkraftwagen) with the Sd.Kfz. number 7. Car (2) refers to the light
The ordinator for numbers in German is the dot (“.“). Where German units personnel carrier with the Kfz. number 2. Etc. Etc. The reader is referred
are referred to in their original German designation, this practice has been to the sections on vehicles in the back of this book.
followed. E.g. 14. Panzer-Division is the German way of designating the
14th Armored Division. Van is a load carrier with a closed, hard body, (usually of wood), used for
office and communications work. Truck is a load carrier having an open
The Germans normally referred to the large formations and the smallest bed, which could be fitted with a tarpaulin stretched over tubular metal or
units with an ordinator (i.e. armies, corps, divisions, brigades, and wooden hoops.
regimental battalions, as well as companies and platoons), whereas army
groups, regiments and independent battalions were referred to in the The diagrams are based on reproductions of German organizational
reverse order. I.e. Heeresgruppe Mitte, Artillerie-Regiment 103 (mot), or symbols of the period.
Panzer-Abteilung 33. To facilitate the location of the various units and to
present a uniform system of identification, all units have the identifying The text beneath each diagram has been used to clarify it, and to give details
numbers indicated first in this work. Army groups, having names as about composition and the amounts of sub-units. It breaks down the KStN,
opposed to numbers, have their designations indicated last. giving numbers and date of issue. KStN that are no longer available are
marked thus: *)
Numbers in German can be confusing to Anglo-Saxons, as the decimal
point becomes a decimal comma: The vehicles or items indicated behind the unit being described indicate the
German: 10,5 English: 10.5 = (ten and a half) amounts in one of these units. E.g.:
Similarly, the comma used to separate thousands is also reversed: 3 Lt Tele Sect: 1 car (2), means that the three light telephone sections each
German: 10.000 English: 10,000 = (ten thousand) have one light communications vehicle (Kfz. 2).
Where using German designations, the German practice has been followed In some cases, sections do not have their own vehicles, or several sections
(i.e.: 3,7cm Pak). Otherwise, the English usage prevails: (i.e. 37mm anti- share a vehicle. In these two cases, this is indicated in the text. E.g.:
tank gun), using the millimeter system instead of the German WW II 1 Mortar Section: rides with one of the infantry squad’s vehicles, or,
system based on centimeters. 2 Pack Radio Sect: ride together in one truck (2-ton).
Military motor vehicles and armored fighting vehicles (AFV) have a The designation “Trains” includes all the administrative, supply, rations,
number behind them in brackets. This number refers to either the German and baggage elements of the corresponding unit. Although maintenance
model number (either Kfz. = Kraftfahrzeug, or to Sd. Kfz. = Sonder sections and detachments were included under this designation, they have
Kraftfahrzeug); or to the tonnage of the carrier. For civilian-type personnel usually been presented separately for clarity.
and load carriers without a special number, the engine size or the weight
classification is indicated instead. E.g.: truck (3-ton) refers to a cross- In some cases, manpower number have been indicated as follows:
country (all-wheel-drive) load-carrier with a 3-ton load factor. Truck (# Officers – Beamte – Non-Commissioned Officers – Enlisted Men)
German unit organizations were based on tables of organization, The Germans occasionally published lists with valid KStN at specific
(Kriegstärkenachweisungen - KStN). Every unit raised had them, and periods, approximately once a year. Some of the KStN indicated on
all orders raising units indicated the corresponding KStN numbers and these lists were never published, or they were issued, but with a remark
dates which applied for them. These orders also indicated any modi- that they were not to be implemented until further notification, (or
fications that might apply at the time. specific orders), which, in some cases, was never forthcoming. Some
KStN existed only a short time, never appearing on these validity lists,
The Germans did not necessarily issue their KStN on the dates (either cancelled, never authorized, or superseded).
indicated on them, and it is highly unlikely that units conformed to the
KStN on their issue dates. The KStN could be distributed before or Other KStN were issued twice under the same date with minor
after (retroactively to) the issue date. The issue date merely referred to modifications. The validity of the second one was indicated by
a specific deadline upon which the KStN was to become effective. underlining the date. Any KStN issued on that date had to have the date
Standard KStN were always dated on the 1st of the month. Provisional underlined to be valid.
KStN were dated any other day of the month. These provisional KStN,
(issued to test new organizations and changes to be promulgated), were KStN and changes became valid when authorized by higher head-
then replaced by the official, standard KStN when ready. Sometimes, quarters and then applied immediately to unit strength reports. Internal
these provisional KStN remained in force and in effect became the reorganizations of the units were not made until the indicated units
standard KStN. In such cases, a ‘standard’ KStN (with an issue date on were able to implement them. This might mean having to wait until the
the 1st of the month), was not issued at all. units could be withdrawn from combat and having time for training and
administrative matters. Units to be issued with new and particularly
As new KStN appeared, the old ones were supposed to be destroyed in complicated equipment were withdrawn to training grounds, transfer-
the field. The bombing and the ensuing fire caused the destruction of ring most of their old equipment to other units upon departure. A new
the Potsdam military archives in 1945, which means that only portions unit was normally raised, trained, and equipped at one of the training
of the KStN remain today. grounds and then sent to the front, where normally (but not always
immediately) it joined its parent unit or formation.
KStN could be modified (changed) by General Army Memorandums
(AHM – Allgemeine Heeresmitteilungen) and also by orders issued by The author has extrapolated the missing KStN from other KStN, which
the various arms inspectorates or higher headquarters. These agencies could be either contemporary and similar, or of the same KStN of later
continually changed and modified the KStN, adding a vehicle here, and/or earlier dates. The KStN number of the unit being defined in this
deleting a soldier or three there, or making other modifications. case has an *) behind it. These educated guesses are also based on what
information could be gleaned from orders of battle, unit histories
The KStN are identified by their original issue date in this book. Such (where available), unit strength reports, and German tactical doctrine
changes as made by the orders mentioned above have been incorporated, manuals of the period.
but the dates of authorizations for these changes have not been indicated.
It is important to emphasize that KStN indicated the maximum authorized organization. In many cases, they represented an ideal
organization which in reality was not achieved.
1.09.1939 5
GERMAN UNITS AND ORGANIZATIONAL SYMBOLS – 1939
The symbols in this book are based on the official German handbook battery. (Firing artillery in units smaller than battery size were depicted
of military symbols (H.Dv. 272) of 1938 – with amendments of the on a smaller scale). None-firing batteries of the artillery arm followed
symbols as used in the organizational charts (Besondere Anlage 8 of the normal form of thickening a portion of the symbol to indicate their
the Mobilization Plans of 1939/1940). Where symbols in the latter are size. Infantry-type artillery (Antiaircraft and infantry gun) and well as
at variance with the former, those symbols of the organizational charts machine gun companies followed the normal practice, and the weapon
have been used. symbols representing these types of companies had the upright stems
thickened accordingly.
In German organizational charts (and, as reflected in this book), the
headquarters symbol represents two purposes. First, it indicated the Where several columns, platoons, or detachments were gathered under
size, function, and mobility of the unit. And, second, it also indicated a company headquarters, (such as a heavy company) – and each of
the headquarters of that echelon itself. I.e., there was no separate these sub-units had its own KStN – these symbols were placed side-by-
symbol for this echelon’s headquarters. For all headquarters units with side and had a company echelon symbol placed over them.
(and sometimes important units without) separate KStN, the corre-
sponding symbols were placed to the right of the echelon’s symbol. The Germans numbered their units on organizational charts from the
The same applied to those units that were directly assigned to the right. I.e., the first company was on the far right, and the last company
echelon’s headquarters. was on the far left. The same applied to battalions and regiments.
The different functions and mobility additions were used to enhance Units smaller than companies appeared on organizational charts only
the echelon’s symbol to indicate a specific purpose. Company-sized if they had their own KStN. Exceptions occurred, particularly if
units and sub-units symbols were also modified in a similar fashion. headquarters sub-units had specialized equipment. They were depict-
ed on a smaller scale than company-sized units.
An interesting feature of company and sub-unit symbols is that their
size and shape dimensions could be altered to fit the diagram being Staffel (Detachment) A unit of varying size with several
depicted with them. Several infantry companies, for example, were components under a headquarters section, these
placed side-by-side, elongated upwards, (so that all weapons symbols components could be from section to platoon size.
could fit within), and only the left-hand company had the thickened Often this was merely an administrative grouping,
edge used to indicate its size (more of this below). The variations in size and the components were distributed to other sub-
and shape followed the original configuration, so that the basic symbol units in combat. It could either have its own small
was still recognizable as such. headquarters section, or one of the components’
leaders could carry out a dual function.
The symbols were intended to be mnemonic. The headquarters sym-
bols reflected the units’ pennants used on vehicles or the standards Kolonne (Column) An independent transportation unit,
themselves. (These flags and pennants were of different colors to varying from company to platoon size, trans-
represent the various combat arms, and usually had a number, letter, porting equipment or supplies such as a bridge
and/or heraldic symbol superimposed upon them). Hence, any Ger- column (which in fact did not actually built the
man looking at one of these symbols could immediately recognize the bridge it was transporting), or even as an light
unit type being depicted. The colors in real life were substituted by the ‘infantry’ column (which consisted of a set number
unit function and mobility modifiers above and below the symbols. In of horse-drawn vehicles capable of transporting a
addition, a simplified version of the organizational symbols was, for fixed tonnage).
example, painted on unit vehicles.
Zug (Platoon) An independent unit or the typical main
The mobility of the unit was also quickly recognizable. The two small sub-division of companies and batteries. Usually,
circles (‘wheels’) underneath a symbols identified the unit as being the 1st and 2nd platoons in each company-sized
motorized. In case these wheels were over the symbol (applied only to unit, and also of independent platoons, were lead
artillery-type units), this indicated that the unit was motorized by half- by a lieutenant, while the other platoons were
tracked prime movers. Elongated ovals (‘tracks’) applied underneath headed by a senior NCO.
the symbol meant that the unit was self-propelled. A wheel and a track
symbol indicated a halftracked amored vehicle. Trupp (lit. Troop; Section) A small unit, equipped with
specialized equipment; it could also be part of the
Although the official handbook indicated that armored infantry units designation for a headquarters echelon unit.
should have the halftrack symbol underneath them instead of the
motorized symbol, this practice was not yet followed in most organiza- The units indicated below were not depicted as separate symbols.
tional charts at that time. The diagrams in this book reflect this usage.
Halb-Zug (lit.: Half-Platoon) Some platoons, for example
The lozenge symbol represented armor. All tank units used this HMG Platoons, could be divided into two parts.
symbol. It was shaped to reflect World War I tanks, and hence provided
a good memory assist. Gruppe (Squad, Section) This was normally the smallest
sub-unit that existed in the German Army. In this
Aside from a very few specialized symbols, which were quickly book, the word “Squad” has only been used for
memorized, all company-sized and smaller unit symbols tended to infantry and reconnaissance infantry units. All
reflect the units’ function or at least their main weapon. In most cases, other units of this size have been designated as
a unit too difficult to depict easily was instead represented by a box “Sections”.
with a corresponding abbreviation inside. In case it belonged to a
particular arm, the arms symbol could be placed on top of or within this Halb-Gruppe (lit. Half-Squad, i.e. Team) In the case of infantry
box. Where various modifiers applied, these were all added to the and reconnaissance units, squads could be broken
symbol. down into two parts. Infantry and reconnaissance
squads were built up around the squad LMG.
Company-sized units had, somewhere within their symbol, a thick- Where only one LMG was provided, the LMG
ened part, usually a side. The only exception found was the Baker team provided cover while the other team was the
Company, which merely had the symbol representing a loaf of bread. movement element. Where two LMG were avail-
able, the teams covered each other in turns. Re-
Excluded from this were the firing artillery (tube, rocket-launcher, and connaissance teams, on the other hand, were
Antiaircraft) batteries. There, the weapon symbol itself in firing trained to work independently, although they too
batteries (usually with the number of guns underneath) indicating a could function as a squad.
6 1.09.1939
German Organizational Symbols 1939
1.09.1939 7
German Organizational Symbols 1939
8 1.09.1939
Pictograms Depicting Individual Figure Symbols (excerpts)
Billet Billet
Symbol Group Definition Symbol Group Definition
Abbreviations:
Adj Adjudant Adjutant o.O. Ordonnanz Offizier Aide to a General Staff Officer
B Fahnenschmied Farrier / Horse Smith Ord Ordonnanz Enlisted orderly
Bäck Bäker Baker Pf Pferdehalter, Pferdepfleger Horse Holder, Groom
Be Beamte Career Civilian Employee (Official) Pi Pionier Pioneer / Engineer
Beob Beobachtung Observation Pol Polizei Military Policeman
Beritt Berittführer Vehicle Team Leader R Rechnungsführer Accounts Clerk
Betr Betriebsstoff Fuel Rech Rechner Calculator
Bl Blinker Flash Signaler RK Richtkreis Direction Finder
Dreh Dreher Lathe Operator Rad Radfahrer Bicyclist
Druck Drucker Printer S Scherenfernrohr Scissors Telescope
Elt Elektromechaniker Electrician San Sanitäts- Medical / Medic
EM Entfernungsmesser Distance Measurer Sat Sattler Saddle Maker
F Feuermeister Exposives Specialist Schir Schirrmeister Specialist Sergeant
Fahr Fahrer Driver Schirrmeister (Ch) for Chemical Warfare Equipment
Fe Fernsprecher Telephoneman / Wireman Schirrmeister (F) for Horse-Drawn Transportation Matters
Fhr Führer Leader Schirrmeister (Fz) for Army Ordnance Matters
Ft Futter Fodder Schirrmeister (K) for Motor Vehicle Equipment
Fu Funker Radio Man Schirrmeister (P) for Engineering Matters
FuM Funkmeister Radio Specialist Schirrmeister (Sch) for Searchlight Equipment
G Gerät Equipment Schl Schächter Butcher
Gas Gasschutz Gas Protection Schm Schmied Smith
GewF Gewehrfüher Gun Team Leader Schn Schneider Tailor
H Handwerker Craftsman Schr Schreiber Clerk
H Hauptfeldwebel Company First Sergeant Schu Schuhmacher Cobbler
Ing Ingenieur Engineer Stell Stellmacher Wheelwright
K Koch Cook St Stellungs- Ranging
Kf Kraftfahr Motor Tisch Tischler Carpenter
Kl Klempner Plumber V Verpflegung Commissary / Rations
L Ladeschütze Loader V Verwaltung Administration
M Melder Messenger Ver Vermessungsmann Distance Measurer
Mal Maler Painter Vet Veterinär Veterinary
Mau Maurer Mason W Waffen- Armorer
Meß Messdienst Measurer WF Waffenführer Weapon Commander
Mot Motorenschlosser Motor Mechanic Wm Waffenmeister Master Armorer
Mun Munition Ammunition Zahl Zahlmeister Paymaster
N Nachrichten Signal Zei Zeichner Draftsman
1.09.1939 9
Pictograms Depicting Vehicle and Animal Symbols
1.
The Brigade Netze comprised the
12. Grenzwacht-Abschnitt and
22. Grenzwacht-Abschnitt, of the
2. Grenzschütz-Abschnitts-Kdo.
2.
The 20. Infanterie-Division (mot)
was reinforced by 2 infantry
battalions and 1 artillery battalion
from the 12. Infanterie-Division.
3.
The Gruppe Danzig (also known as
the Brigade Eberhard) had
2 regiments Danzig
“Landespolizei” and 1 artillery
battalion.
4.
The Festung Lötzen had an
approximate strength of one
“Landwehr” division.
5.
The Brigade Goldap comprised the
fortress troops of Königsberg,
the 51. Grenzwacht-Abschnitt,
4 battalions of “Landesschützen”,
1 artillery battalion,
1 anti-tank battalion, 1 engineer
battalion, and misc. other units.
6.
The 16. Infanterie-Regiment was an
air-landing unit, detached from the
22. Infanterie-Division.
7.
The 4th Welle infantry divisions
were released by the OKH on
3.09.1939 as follows:
251. to 5. Armee
253. to 5. Armee
254. to 5. Armee
260. to Gen. Kdo. Grz. Tr. Oberrhein
262. to Gen. Kdo. Grz. Tr. Oberrhein
263. to 5. Armee
267. to 5. Armee
268. to 1. Armee
269. to 5. Armee
[The 255. and 256. Infanterie-
Divisions (the remaining 4th Welle
formations), although OKH
Reserves, were not really ready at
this time, and were not released at
all.]
8.
The 76. Infanterie-Division was
truck-borne by means of a motor
transportation regiment. On
1.09.1939, this division was
released by the OKH to
Heeresgruppe C, and was still en-
route at this time.
9.
These divisions were released on
1.09.1939 by the OKH, and were
still en-route at this time.
Generalkommando
der Grenztruppen
Corps echelon command of the
Border Troops
Grenzschutz-Abschnitts-
Kommando
Corps or Divisional echelon of the
Border Guards
Grenzswacht-Abschnitt
Regimental echelon of the
Border Guards
12 1.09.1939
Typical Paket (Fully Constituted Army with Army Troops and attached GHQ Troops)
1.09.1939 13
Order of Battle – Paket (Army Groups and Armies with Army Troops and attached GHQ Troops)
Paket K P O L M S B D N W –
Army or Army Group 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 10 12 14 C
Hqs, Engr. Rgt. (mot) 507 – 541 – 504 511 – – – – –
Combat Engr. Bn. (mot) 52 – 41 – 46 45 – – – – –
– – 505 – – – – – – – –
Engr. Bridge Constr. Bn. 593 – 521 566 560 552 531 548 577 522 –
Antitank Bn. (mot) 525 – 511 560 543 559 561 563 545 – –
– – 521 – – – – – – – –
Army Signal Rgt. 596 511 501 1) 589 563 558 537 549 570 521 3) 628 Bn 5)
Supply Services
Hqs, Army Supply Rgt. 591 – 501 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Supply Column Bn. (mot) 592 – 510 2) 583 562 552 532 542 572 522 4) –
593 – – 584 563 553 533 543 573 525 –
Supply Bn. (semi–mot) 592 – 502 582 562 552 532 542 572 522 –
593 – 507 583 563 553 533 543 573 523 –
Field Maint. Co. (mot) 592, 593 – 502, 509 584, 586 562, 563 552, 553 532, 533 542, 543 572, 573 522, 523 –
Engr. Equipment Plt. (mot) 591 – 516 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Engineer Park. Co. 1 – 2/591 – 517, 518 1 – 2/581 1 – 2/561 1 – 2/551 1 – 2/531 1 – 2/541 1 – 2/571 1 – 2/521 –
Engineer Park 591 – – 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Transport Equipment Park 591 – – 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Artillery Park 591 – – 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Infantry Park 591 – – 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Motor Vehicle Park 591 – 501 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Signal Park 591 – 501 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Gas Protection Park 591 – – 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
Medical Services
Army Medical Rgt. 592 – 501 582 562 552 532 542 572 522 –
• Medical Co. (mot) 1 – 2/592 – 500 – 502 1 – 2/582 1 – 2/562 1 – 2/551 1 – 2/532 1 – 2/542 1 – 2/571 522 –
• Field Hospitals (mot) 1 – 6/592 – 502, 504, 506, 1 – 6/582 1 – 6/562 1 – 6/551 1 – 6/532 1 – 6/542 1 – 6/572 1 – 4/522 –
508, 510
• Ambulance Plt. (mot) 1 – 6/592 – 502, 504, 506, 1 – 6/582 1 – 6/562 1 – 6/571 1 – 6/522 1 – 6/542 1 – 6/572 1 – 6/522 –
508, 510, 512
• Medical Park – 501 581 560 550 530 540 570 520 –
Military Hospital Bn. 591 – 509 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
• Military Hospitals (mot) 1 – 2/591 – 1 – 2/509 1 – 2/581 1 – 2/561 1 – 2/551 1 – 2/531 1 – 2/541 1 – 2/571 1/521 –
• Lt. Casualty Hospitals (mot) 3 – 4/591 – 3 – 4/509 3 – 4/581 3 – 4/561 3 – 4/551 3 – 4/531 3 – 4/541 3 – 4/571 2/521 –
Casualty Transport Bn. 591 – 503 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
592 – 506 582 562 552 532 542 572 – –
Veterinary Services
Army Veterinary Hospitals 591 – 593 – 503, 506, 581 – 583 561 – 563 551 – 553 531 – 533 541 – 543 571 – 573 521 – 523 –
509, 512
mobile Examination Det. 591, 592 – 503, 506, 581, 582 561, 562 551, 552 531, 532 541, 542 571, 572 521, 522 –
509, 512
Army Remount Parks 590, 591 – 501, 502 580, 581 560, 561 551, 552 530, 531 540, 541 570, 571 520, 521 –
Veterinary Park 590 – 501 580 560 550 530 540 570 520 –
Horse Transport Col. (mot) 1 – 2/591 – 1 – 2/503 1 – 2/581 1 – 2/561 1 – 2/551 1 – 2/531 1 – 2/541 1 – 2/571 1 – 2/521 –
1 – 2/592 1 – 2/506 1 – 2/582 1 – 2/562 1 – 2/552 1 – 2/532 1 – 2/542 1 – 2/572 1 – 2/522 –
1 – 2/593 1 – 2/509 1 – 2/583 1 – 2/563 1 – 2/553 1 – 2/533 1 – 2/543 1 – 2/573 1 – 2/523 –
1 – 2/512
Provost Marshal Services
Korück 590 – 501 580 560 550 530 540 570 520 –
Guard Bn. 591 – 502 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
592 – 508 582 562 552 532 542 572 522 –
Military Police Bn. (mot) 591 – 501 581 561 551 531 541 571 521 –
MP Field Stations 590, 591 – – 580, 581 560, 561 550, 551 530, 531 540 – 541 570, 571 520, 521 –
MP Local Stations I 592 – 595 – 501 – 506 582 – 584 562, 565–567 552, 555–557 532 – 534 542 – 544 572 – 574 522 – 524 –
MP Local Stations II 596 – 597 – 508, 510, 511, 585 – 587 563, 564 553, 554 535 – 537 545 – 547 575 – 577 525 – 527 –
513, 514
Road Construction Services
Road Construction Bn. 591 – 505 580 562 551 532 540 571 521 –
597 – 510 584 563 559 538 544 576 523 –
Administration Services
Army Commissary Det. 590 – 501 580 560 550 530 540 570 520 –
Butcher Plt. (mot) 591, 592 – 503, 505 581, 582 561, 562 551, 552 531, 532 541, 542 571, 572 521, 522 –
Baker Co. (mot) 591, 592 – 503, 505 581, 582 561, 562 551, 552 531, 532 541, 542 571, 572 521, 522 –
Fieldpost Services
Army Post Det. 590 – 500 580 560 550 530 540 570 520 –
Fieldpost Det. (mot) 590 – 593 – 501, 503, 580 – 583 560 – 563 550 – 553 530 – 533 540 – 543 570 – 573 521, 523, 639
506, 509 524, 526
Fieldpost Forwarding Det. 597 – 500 587 567 557 537 547 577 527 –
NOTES:
1) Different organization, see 501st Motorized Army Signal Regiment.
2) Also 2 non-motorized Supply Column Battalions (505, 509).
3) With only I. and II. Signal Battalions.
4) Each of 120-tons (instead of 60-tons) plus 2 non-motorized Battalions (522, 525).
5) No Signal Regiment. The 628. Nachrichten-Abteilung z.b.V. (Signal Battalion for Special Purposes) had 2 motorized companies (one Telephone Operations and
one Radio.)
ARMEE-FELDPOSTDIENSTE
Army Field Post Services
ARMEE-VERWALTUNGSDIENSTE
Army Administrative Services
NOTES:
[1] The cement mixers were transported on the 5-ton trailers.
[2] The two trailers in the Asphalt Surfacing Equipment Section were towed by
the wheeled tractor (road train). Tactically, the power rollers moved on their
own account, at approx. 3–4 km/h.
22 1.09.1939
PANZERABWEHR-ABTEILUNG (motorisiert)
Motorized Anti-Tank Battalion
NOTES:
In the Paket O (3rd Army), there were additionally the 502nd, 504th, 506th, and group “R”, who was also the Army Surgeon. Part of the battalion headquarters
508th Hospital Trains Type b, as well as the 503rd, 50th, 507th, and 509th Hos- served in the army headquarters as the staff for the Army Surgeon, who was
pital Trains (Light Wounded) Type b. The KStN for these trains have not been furthermore responsible for all other medical units in the army.
located.
The Military Hospital Battalion was also commanded by an officer in billet group
The Headquarters, Motorized Army Medical Battalion was represented by a “R”, and thus this unit was also represented by a regimental echelon symbol.
regimental symbol, as the battalion was commanded by an officer in billet Nevertheless, the commander was subordinate to the Army Surgeon.
24 1.09.1939
ARMEE-NACHSCHUB-EINHEITEN
Army Supply Units
NOTES:
In the of Paket O (3rd Army), the 502nd Supply Column Battalion had three
columns of 60-ton capacity, 1 fuel column, and 1 maintenance platoon. The 505th
and 509th Supply Column Battalions had eight Heavy Supply Columns of 60-
tons capacity each, but no fuel or maintance units.
Park units consisted not only of personnel for administration, but also specialist
personnel for maintenance and repair. There was no fixed allotment of equipment
maintained or administered in these depots.
26 1.09.1939
ARMEE-VETERINÄR-EINHEITEN
Army Veterinary Units
NOTES:
The veterinary units were under the Army Veterinary Surgeon, was also respon-
sible for all other veterinary units in the army.
[1] These five wagons were pulled by remount horses maintained by the platoon.
1.09.1939 27
ARMEE-ORDNUNGS-EINHEITEN
Army Provost Marshal Units
KStN 2203 Military Police Local Station II (OK II) (Company Echelon)
1.03.1939 Local Station: (# 2–1–8–7); 3 mcl; 1 car (light); 1 truck (light); 4 bicycles.
28 1.09.1939
ARMEEKORPS
Infantry Corps
Mcl Mapping MP Field Post Artillery Hvy Art Hvy Art Bridge Signal Supply Commanding
Corps Type Plt. Det. Det. Det. Hqs. Bn. Bn. Col. Bn. Bn. Officer
I. Inf. 421. 421. 421. 421. – – – 421. 41. – Gen.Lt. Walter Petzel
II. Inf. 402. 402. 402. 402. 2. Arko II./38. 436. 1.–2./402. 42. 402. Gen.d.Inf. Adolf Strauss
III. Inf. 403. 403. 403. 403. 3. Arko II./39. II./59. 1.–2./403. 43. 403. Gen.d.Art. Curt Haase
IV. Inf. 404. 404. 404. 404. 24. Arko II./40. II./50. 1.–2./404. 44. 404. Gen.d.Inf. Viktor von Schwedler
V. Inf. 405. 405. 405. 405. 41. Rgt. II./61. II./71. 1.–2./405. 45. 405. Gen.d.Inf. Richard Ruoff
VI. Inf. 406. 406. 406. 406. 6. Arko II./42. II./62. 1.–2./406. 46. 406. Gen.d.Pion. Otto-Wilhelm Förster
VII. Inf. 407. 407. 407. 407. 7. Arko II./43. II./63. 1.–2./407. 47. 407. Gen.d.Inf. Eugen Ritter von Schobert
VIII. Inf. 408. 408. 408. 408. 18. Arko II./44. II./64. 1.–2./408. 48. 408. Gen.d.Inf. Ernst Busch
IX. Inf. 409. 409. 409. 409. 15. Arko II./45. II./51. 1.–2./409. 49. 409. Gen.d.Inf. Hermann Geyer
X. Inf. 410. 410. 410. 410. 22. Arko II./58. II./66. 1.–2./410. 50. 410. Gen.d.Art. Wilhelm Ulex
XI. Inf. 411. 411. 411. 411. 31. Arko II./55. II./67. 1.–2./411. 51. 411. Gen.d.Art. Emil Leeb
XII. Inf. 412. 412. 412. 412. 69. Rgt. II./69. II./70. 1.–2./412. 52. 412. Gen.d.Inf. Walter Schroth
XIII. Inf. 413. 413. 413. 413. 17. Arko II./46. II./53. 1.–2./413. 53. 413. Gen.d.Art. Herbert Osterkamp
XVII. Inf. 417. 417. 417. 417. 109. Rgt. I./109. II./109. – 66. 417. Gen.d.Inf. Werner Kienitz
XVIII. Inf. 418. 418. 418. 418. – III./109. – – 70. 418. Gen.d.Inf. Eugen Beyer
XXI. Inf. 463. 463. 463. 463. – – – 463. 463. – Gen.d.Inf. Nikolaus von Falkenhorst
XXII. Inf. 422. 422. 422. 422. 30. Arko 422. 445. 1.–2./422. 422. 422. Gen.d.Kav. Erich von Kleist
XXVII. Inf. 427. 427. 427. 427. 27. Ârko 408. 427. 1.–2./427. 427. 427. Gen.d.Inf. Karl Ritter von Prager
XXX. Inf. 430. 430. 430. 430. 19. Arko 430. 446. 1.–2./430. 430. 430. Gen.d.Art. Otto Hartmann
1.09.1939 29
ARMEEKORPS (motorisiert)
Motorized Corps
Mcl Mapping MP Field Post Artillery Hvy Art Hvy Art Engineer Bridge Signal Supply Commanding
Corps Type Plt. Det. Det. Det. Hqs. Bn. Bn. Bn. Col. Bn. Bn. Officer
XIV. Mot. 414. 414. 414. 414. 49. Rgt. II./49. II./59. 60. 1.–2./60. 60. 44. Gen.d.Inf. Gustav von Wietersheim
XV. Mot. 415. 415. 415. 415. – – – – 1.–2./415. 61. 415. Gen.d.Inf. Hermann Hoth
XVI. Mot. 473. 473. 473. 473. – – – 62. 1.–3./62. 62. 473. Gen.d.Kav. Erich Hoepner
XIX. Mot. 419. 419. 419. 419. – – – – – 80. 419. Gen.d.Pz.Tr. Heinz Guderian
Notes:
The 419. Supply Battalion was a headquarters only, without any assigned units.
30 1.09.1939
ARMEEKORPS-NACHRICHTEN-ABTEILUNG (motorisiert)
Infantry Corps Signal Battalion (motorized)
NOTES:
The 419. Support Battalion consisted of a Headquarters only. It had no units.
1.09.1939 33
KORPS-ARTILLERIE-ABTEILUNG (motorisiert)
Corps Motorized Artillery Battalion
KStN 561 *) Signal Platoon, Motorized Artillery Regiment for Special Purposes
1.10.1937 Hqs Sect: 1 mcl; 1 car (15).
1 Hvy Tele Sect a: 1 car (2); 1 van (76).
3 Lt Tele Sect c: 1 car (15/1).
2 Lt Radio Sect b: 1 van (17).
4 Pack Radio Sect b: 1 car (2/2).
1 Lt Radio Sect c: 1 van (17/1).
NOTES:
A Headquarters, Motorized Artillery Regiment was an artillery headquarters used to
coordinate concentrations of artillery. Normally assigned to control artillery organic
and attached to one or more divisions, it performed similar functions and missions as 41 zbV V. Armeekorps, 5. Armee, Hgr. C
the Arko. 49 zbV XIV. Armeekorps, 10. Armee, Hgr. Süd
The ideal amount of artillery for an attack depended on three main factors: 69 zbV XII. Armeekorps, 1. Armee, Hgr. C
1. The width of the sector under attack. One battery was planned for each 100 meters 70 zbV GHQ Troops, ?
of front to be attacked. An additional battery for each recognized enemy artillery 109 zbV XVII. Armeekorps, 14. Armee, Hgr. Süd
battery. 110 zbV XVIII. Armeekorps, 14. Armee, Hgr. Süd
2. The defensive position of the enemy, as well as the type of attack to be carried out. 501 zbV I. Armeekorps, 3. Armee, Hgr. Nord
The type of weapons used depended on whether the attack would be carried out 511 zbV XXI. Armeekorps, 3. Armee, Hgr. Nord
by infantry, mixed, or mechanized forces, as this determined the speed of the 603 zbV XIX. Armeekorps, 4. Armee, Hgr. Nord
attack. In addition, the primary, secondary, and tertiary objectives made a 606 zbV GHQ Troops, ?
difference in the missions of the artillery. The types of defences the enemy had,
609 zbV Gzr.Sch.Abschn.Kdo. 1, 4. Armee, Hgr. Nord
as obviously a different type of artillery and ammunition were needed if the
enemy had field fortifications, concrete emplacements, or defended built-up 610 zbV Hgr. Süd Reserves
areas. Terrain also played an important part, as mountains required a complete- 612 zbV Gzr.Sch.Abschn.Kdo. Oberrhein, 7. Armee, Hgr. C
ly different type of artillery fire than, say, flat, open country, where armor could 613 zbV Gzr.Sch.Abschn.Kdo. Eifel, 5. Armee, Hgr. C
deploy rapidly and advance. 614 zbV Hgr. Süd Reserves
3. The mission of the friendly artillery. The Germans expected to achieve fire 617 zbV Hgr. Süd Reserves
superiority only if at least a 2:1 ratio over the enemy artillery could be achieved. 618 zbV GHQ Troops, ?
Naturally, the amount and type of enemy artillery determined to a great extent 619 zbV Hgr. C Reserves
whether field howitzers or heavy guns should be used, and if the mission was
622 zbV GHQ Troops, ?
to destroy concentrations of enemy artillery, to destroy enemy infantry and its
positions, whether to interdict enemy rear areas, or to interrupt enemy re-supply 623 zbV GHQ Troops, ?
and counterattack missions. 627 zbV XVI. Armeekorps, 10. Armee, Hgr. Süd
1.09.1939 37
ARTILLERIE-REGIMENT (motorisiert)
Motorized Artillery Regiment
NOTES:
The heavy 150mm field howitzer was basically an enlarged version of the 105mm light field
howitzer. The heavy field howitzers were used mainly to reinforce the infantry’s artillery,
Specifications of the 150mm Heavy Field Howitzer and the 105mm Gun
which had identical equipment in its heavy battalion. The high explosive (HE) shells fired
by the schwere Feldhaubitze 18 (sFH) were mainly antipersonnel rounds, although the Designation: schwere Feldhaubitze 18 10cm Kanone 18
batteries were also equipped with smoke and concrete-piercing rounds. The sFH was towed Manufactured by: Krupp (barrel) Rheinmetall (barrel)
by its halftrack with the barrel retracted back over the trails and limber, thereby relieving & Rheinmetall (carriage) & Krupp (carriage)
the limber’s wheels to some extent. To bring back the barrel into this position, a hand Introduced in: 1933/34 1933/34
operated winch was mounted on the trails. To extend the barrel into its firing position, all Trailer loads: one two
members of the gun crew had to assist the wincher to pull the barrel forward. There were Caliber: 149.1mm 105mm
1353 heavy howitzers available in the German Army on 1.09.1939 Barrel length: L/29.5 L/52
Range: 13,325 meters 19,075 meters
The 105mm Gun was designed to be a medium-range counter-battery weapon. It was also Ammo weight: 43.5 kilos 15.1 kilos
frequently assigned the mission of enemy rear area interdiction, where fire was directed Unlimbered weight: 5,512 kilos 5,542 kilos
mainly on supply routes and dumps, as well as suspected concentrations of reserves. The Limbered weight: 6,304 kilos 6,434 kilos
10cm Kanone 18 (10cm Kan) was transported in two loads until early 1941. There were Traverse: 60° / 60° 60° / 60°
702 of these guns on hand on 1.09.1939. Elevation: 0° to +45° 0° to +45°
40 1.09.1939
SCHWERE ARTILLERIE-ABTEILUNG (motorisiert)
Motorized Heavy Artillery Battalion
KStN 661 *) Motorized Light Rocket Launcher Column “a”, Motorized Rocket Battalion
1.10.1938 Col Hqs: 1 mcl; 1 car (light).
Ammo Plt: Hqs Sect: 1 car (light).
2 Ammo Sect: 4 trucks (light).
Col Trains: 1 mcl; 3 trucks (light).
KStN 663 *) Motorized Light Rocket Launcher Column “b”, Motorized Rocket Battalion
1.10.1938 Col Hqs: 1 mcl; 1 car (light).
1 Plt: 1 car (light); 4 trucks (light); 2 trucks (3-ton).
1 Plt: Hqs Sect: 1 car (light).
3 Sect: 4 halftracks (10/3); 6 halftracks (11/3).
Col Trains: 1 mcl w/sc; 2 trucks (light); 1 truck (medium).
NOTES:
Nebeltruppen (‘Smoke Troops’) was the designation used to conceal chemical The first battalion (1.) was raised in 1934. There were of three of these GHQ
warfare units. The battalions were never used as such. Instead, most of the Troops battalions by the time of the 1939 Polish Campaign.
specialized equipment was stored in parks. Only the single tube 105mm rocket
launcher was employed, used to fire high explosive rounds and laying smoke
screens. Battalion Assignment
1. Nebel-Abteilung (mot) XVI. Armeekorps, 10. Armee, Hgr. Süd
The Nebelwerfer 35 (Nbl.W. 35) was the standard equipment on 1.09.1939, used 2. Nebel-Abteilung (mot) XIX. Armeekorps, 4. Armee, Hgr. Nord
to deliver chemical rounds. It was not a rocket launcher, but a large mortar. It was 5. Nebel-Abteilung (mot) direct to 7. Armee, Hgr. C
loaded via the front of the tube, had a smooth barrel, and a high elevation and
trajectory. In addition to poisonous gas rounds, it could fire smoke and high Specifications for the 105mm rocket-launcher:
explosive rounds. The mortar could be broken down into three man-packed loads
and carried by its crew of seven, (team leader; three gunners, and three ammuni- Designation: Nebelwerfer 35 (Nbl.W. 35)
tion handlers). For movement of the mortar and ammunition over longer distanc- Manufactured by: Rheinmetall-Borsig
es, small hand carts were issued. The three components of the Nbl.W. 35 were: Introduced: 1934
Bipod with adjustment gear: 32.2 kilos carried by Gunner No. 1 Caliber: 105mm
Tube with cover: 31.7 kilos carried by Gunner No. 2 Barrel length: L/13
Base plate: 36.3 kilos carried by Gunner No. 3 Range: 3,075 meters
Projectile weight: 7.26 kilos (High Explosive); 8.62 kilos (Smoke)
The most important criteria for the selection of the firing position was the type of Unlimbered weight: 101 kilos
ground upon which the Nbl.W. 35 was to be emplaced. The base plate was Limbered weight: 101 kilos
preferably emplaced on hard, gravely ground, so that the launcher did not jump Traverse: 15 ° / 15 °
up when fired. It took three rounds to zero in the weapon, the first rounds were best Elevation: +45° / +84°
fired at high elevation to settle the base plate firmly on the ground. Rate of Fire: 10 / 15 rpm
44 1.09.1939
MASCHINENGEWEHR-BATAILLON (motorisiert)
Independent Machine Gun Battalion (motorized)
KStN 243 *) Signal Platoon (motorized), Infantry Machine Gun Battalion (motorized)
1.10.1937 Plt Hqs: 2 mcl; 1 car (15/1).
4 Lt Tele Sect a: 1 car (15/1).
6 Pack Radio Sect d: 1 car (2/2).
KStN 116 *) Infantry Machine Gun Company (motorized), Infantry Machine Gun Battalion (motorized)
1.10.1938 Bty Hqs: 6 mcl; 2 mcl w/sc; 1 car (18).
Signal Det: 2 Lt Tele Sect c: 1 car (15/1).
4 Pack Radio Sect d: 1 car (2).
MG Plt: Hqs Sect: 2 mcl; 1 mcl w/sc; 1 car (18).
1 Lt Tele Sect c: 1 car (15/1).
2 MG Det: 2 trucks (70); 2 HMG.
Bty Trains: 1 mcl; 1 mcl w/sc; 1 car (light); 3 trucks (1.5-ton); 2 trucks (3-ton).
NOTES:
The independent Machine Gun Battalions (motorized) had originally been con-
ceived as mobile defensive units and were usually held in reserve during an
offensive and were exclusively GHQ Troops. As the name indicates, these
battalions were lavishly equipped with heavy machine guns. In many cases, an
engineer company was attached to provided support and assistance in the
construction of road blocks, field fortifications, mine fields, etc.
The Infantry Inspectorate raised the first nine independent MG Battalions in 1935
Battalion Assignment (1. – 9.), two more in 1937 (10. – 11.), and another three in 1938 (13. – 15.).
1. MG-Bataillon (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Eifel, 5. Armee, Hgr. C
2. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Eifel, 5. Armee, Hgr. C
3. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Eifel, 5. Armee, Hgr. C
Specifications of the 37mm Anti-Tank Gun:
4. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Oberrhein, 7. Armee, Hgr. C
Designation: 3,7cm Panzerabwehrkanonen (Pak) 35/36
5. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Oberrhein, 7. Armee, Hgr. C
Gun made by: Rheinmetall
6. MG-Battalion (mot) XIII. Armeekorps, 7. Armee, Hgr. C Introduced in: 1936
7. MG-Battalion (mot) XV. Armeekorps, 10. Armee, Hgr. Süd Caliber: 37mm
8. MG-Battalion (mot) III. Armeekorps, 4. Armee, Hgr. Nord Barrel length: L/45
9. MG-Battalion (mot) XXI. Armeekorps, 3rd Army, Hgr. Nord Effective range: 500 meters
10. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Saarpfalz, 5. Armee, Hgr. C Ammo weight: 0.685 kilos
Unlimbered weight: 440 kilos
11. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Oberrhein, 7. Armee, Hgr. C
Limbered weight: 450 kilos
13. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Saarpfalz, 5. Armee, Hgr. C Traverse: 60° / 60°
14. MG-Battalion (mot) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Saarpfalz, 5. Armee, Hgr. C Elevation: –8° / +25°
15. MG-Battalion (mot) XIV. Armeekorps, 10. Armee, Hgr. Süd Rate of fire: 12 – 15 rounds/minute
1.09.1939 45
STAB, HEERES PANZER-BRIGADE
Headquarters, Independent Tank Brigade
NOTES:
The Headquarters, 6. Panzer-Brigade was attached to the 1. leichte Division. It
was to command the organic 65. Panzer-Abteilung as well as the attached GHQ
11. Panzer-Regiment. After the 1939 Polish Campaign, the brigade headquarters
and the 11. Panzer-Regiment were permanently assigned to that division.
NOTES:
Strengths of Panzer units once in the field had little to do with the Authorized (i.e., Thereafter, the periodic reports submitted by the divisions were used to gauge
KStN) strengths. The KStN were only adhered to when a unit was initially strength and used as a guideline to decide what replacements — but only in a
outfitted or rebuilt. Hence there was a only close relationship between the very general sense — were to be sent to the unit. This applied until the next time
KStN and the On-Hand strengths when a unit was first sent into battle. Two the unit was completely refitted. The KStN did not afford any rights to the unit
days later, these KStN were not worth the paper they were written on. in the field whatsoever to demand to be filled up to Authorized Strength.
46 1.09.1939
HEERES PANZER-REGIMENT
Independent Tank Regiment
NOTES:
This organization applied to the Panzer-Lehr-Battalion
1.09.1939 49
PANZER-ABWEHR-ABTEILUNG
Motorized Anti-Tank Battalion
NOTES:
The German first-line anti-tank gun at the outbreak of the war in 1939 was the
37mm ATG (3,7cm Pak 35/36). At the time is was possibly as good as any other
ATG used by the armies of the other major powers. It was used with considerable
Battalion Companies Assigned to success in the 1939 Polish Campaign, although its penetration performance at
511. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) 3. Armee Reserves, Hgr. Nord angles of attack other than normal was considered disappointing.
521. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) Gr. Goldap, 3. Armee, Hgr. Nord
The 37mm ATG was efficient as its light weight resulting in easy handling. In
525. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) 1. Armee Reserves, Hgr. C the “b” version of the organization, it was towed by all-wheel-drive personnel
543. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) 5. Armee Reserves, Hgr. C carriers equipped with towing hooks (Kfz. 12). It could be manhandled into
545. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) Hgr. Süd Reserves position by its crew when necessary and could also, for example, be easily
559. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) 7. Armee Reserves, Hgr. C transported in one rubber engineer assault boat (S-Boot). Two leather bandoliers
for hauling and even lifting the gun were issued with each gun.
560. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) Grz.Sch.Kdo. 12, 4. Armee, Hgr. Nord
561. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) 8. Armee Reserves, Hgr. Süd
563. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) 10. Armee Reserves, Hgr. Süd
Specifications of the 37mm Anti-Tank Gun:
605. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) III. Armeekorps, 4. Armee, Hgr. Nord
Designation: 3,7cm Panzerabwehrkanonen (Pak) 35/36
611. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) GHQ Troops Gun made by: Rheinmetall
616. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) GHQ Troops Introduced in: 1936
625. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) GHQ Troops Caliber: 37mm
Barrel length: L/45
643. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) Grz.Sch.Kdo.Eifel, 5. Armee, Hgr. C
Effective range: 500 meters
645. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) GHQ Troops Ammo weight: 0.685 kilos
652. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) Hgr. C Reserves Unlimbered weight: 440 kilos
654. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) GHQ Troops Limbered weight: 450 kilos
Traverse: 60° / 60°
645. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) GHQ Troops Elevation: –8° / +25°
672. Panzer-Abwehr-Abt. 3 (b) GHQ Troops Rate of fire: 12 – 15 rounds/minute
50 1.09.1939
AUFKLÄRUNGS-LEHR-ABTEILUNG (motorisiert)
Motorized Demonstration Reconnaissance Battalion
Notes:
The Panzer-Aufklärungs-Lehr-Abteilung was a Training Army (Ersatzheer) unit
transferred to the Field Army (Feldheer) upon mobilization. It was originally
planned to mobilize it as part of the Cavlary Brigade, but it was instead attached
to the III. Armeekorps, 4. Armee as of 1.09.1939.
1.09.1939 51
STAB, PIONIER-REGIMENT (motorisiert) z.b.V.
Headquarters, Special Engineer Regiment (motorized)
PIONIERSPERR-KOLONNE (motorisiert)
Engineer Blocking Column (motorized)
PIONIER-KOMPANIE (motorisiert)
Engineer Company (motorized)
PIONIER-KOLONNE (motorisiert)
Engineer Transport Column (motorized)
1.09.1939 55
BRÜCKEN-KOLONNE B (motorisiert)
Type B Bridge Column (motorized)
PIONIER-BRÜCKEN-BAU-KOMPANIE (motorisiert)
Engineer Bridge Construction Company (motorized)
PIONIER-BRÜCKEN-BAU-KOMPANIE
Engineer Bridge Construction Company
58 1.09.1939
PIONIER-MASCHINEN-KOLONNE (motorisiert)
Engineer Equipment Column (motorized)
BRÜCKENBAU-PARK-KOMPANIE
Bridge Construction Park Company
1.09.1939 59
KRAFTWAGENTRANSPORTREGIMENT
Motor Transport Regiment
NOTES:
Motor transport units were initially conceived to provide strategic transportation
of non-motorized troop units by road. One of these Motor Transport Regiments
could move one complete 1st Wave infantry division.
They were very much road bound, consisting of civilian vehicles requisitioned
upon mobilization. Each medium truck and each trailer was supposed to have a
load factor 4 tons, giving each platoon a capacity of 108 tons – i.e., 324 tons per
company.
There were three of these regiments (602th, 605th, and 616th). In addition, there
was the independent 501st Battalion, organized as above, although with only three
transport companies.
60 1.09.1939
OBERBAUSTAB
Higher Construction Headquarters
NOTES:
[1] Administration, mess, and supply were provided by the Motorized Printing
Platoon.
KStN 501(G) Secret Field Police Section / Border Guard Sector Command
01.10.1937 Section: (# 0–16 –1–7); 1 mcl, 1 mcl w/sc; 1 car (light), 1 car (medium), 1 motor bus (light).
KStN 581(G) *) Motorized Field Post Detachment / Border Guard Sector Command
1.04.1935 Det: (# 0–18–0–0); 3 cars (light); 1 motor bus (medium).
Notes:
The Border Guard Sector Command could be either a corps echelon or a
divisional echelon command, depending on the rank of commanding general
assigned. Composition of the headquarters or the number of personnel did not
change.
Not all KStN for the Border Guard units have been located, although the
personnel and equipment are noted where available.
1.09.1939 89
COMMANDERS OF BORDER GUARD AND FORTRESS FORMATIONS
Notes:
The Grenzschutz-Abschnitts-Kommandos 4 (Schweidnitz) , 5 , 6, 10 (Innsbruck), and 20 were not mobilized.
(1) Gen. Kaupisch was finally transferred to the Army on 01.09.1940 as a General der Artillerie.
(2) Mobilized Grenzschutzabschnittskommando 7
(3) Mobilized Grenzschutzabschnittskommando 8
(4) Also known as Grenzschutz-Verband
(5) Mobilized Grenzschutzabschnittskommando 11
(6) Also known as Verband Danzig
(7) Also known as Generalkommando z.b.V.
(8) Also known as Kommandostab z.b.V.
(9) Navy command. Complete title is Chef Küstenkommandant Ost und Festungskommandant Pillau (Commander-in-Chief Baltic Sea Coast and Fortress
Commander Pillau.)
(Gen.Maj. Generalmajor. US Army equivalent is Brigadier General
(Gen.Lt. Generalleutnant. US Army equivalent is Major General
(Gen.d.Inf. General der Infanterie. US Army equivalent is Lieutenant General
(Gen.d.Fl. General der Flieger. US Army equivalent is Lieutenant General
90 1.09.1939
GRENZWACHT-ABSCHNITT
Border Guard Sector
KStN 57(G) Border Guard Infantry Antitank Gun Section (motorized) [1]
01.10.1936 Sect: (#0–0–1–8); 2 cars (12), 1 mcl, 1 trailer (ammo – Sd.Anh. 32), 1 antitank gun (3,7cm).
KStN 185 (G) *) Platoon; Border Guard Engineer Blocking Company [2]
01.03.1939 Plt: (# 1–0–4–40); 45 bicycles.
KStN 653 (G) Headquarters; Border Guard Satic Machine Gun Company
01.10.1937 Hqs Sect: (#1–0–2–9); 1 mcl ; 1 mcl w/sc; 8 bicycles.
Company Trains: (# 0–0–4–4); 1 mcl w/sc; 1 bicycle.
KStN 655 (G) Platoon; Border Guard Static Machine Gun Company [3]
01.10.1937 Plt Hqs: (# 1–0–1–7); 2 bicycles.
4 MG Sqds: (# 0–0–1–8); 1 bicycle; 1 wagon (Hf. 1); 2 draught horses; 2 HMG.
NOTES:
[1] Administration, mess, and supply provided by headquarters to which the
antitank gun section was assigned.
[2] The platoons did not all have the same number of men, as the strengths were
indicated by the objects to be blocked. The numbers indicated are an average.
[3] No MG are indicated in the KStN itself, but the organizational diagrams all
show eight weapons.
Not all KStN for the possible subordinate units have been located.
1.09.1939 91
GRENZSCHUTZ-PIONIER-SPERR-BATAILLON
Border Guard Engineer Blocking Battalion
KStN 185 (G) *) Platoon; Border Guard Engineer Blocking Company [2]
01.03.1939 Plt: (# 1–0–4–40); 45 bicycles.
NOTES:
The Border Guard Engineer Blocking Battalions had a variable number of
subordinate units, their number depending upon the mission assigned. Even the
platoons did not all have the same number of men, as the strengths were indicated
by the type of objects to be blocked. The numbers indicated are an average.
92 1.09.1939
SOURCES AND REFERENCES
UNPUBLISHED
Bundesarchiv-Militärarchiv in Freiburg/Br. National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
RHD 4/272 “Taktische Zeichen des Heeres, mit Anhang: Zeichen der Luftwaffe” T312 / R39 “Kriegsgliederung der 8. Armee”
Oberkommando des Heeres, 1938 A.O.K. 8
RHD 11/1 – 53 “Kriegstärkenachweisungen” T312 / R116 “Kriegsgliederung der 4. Armee aufgrund Armeebefehl Nr. 3”
RHD 18/22 “Besondere Anlage 2 A zum Mob. Plan (Heer) – 1939/1940” A.O.K. 4
= Übersicht der Einheiten des Kriegsheeres = T312 / R477 “Befehlsgliederung A.O.K. 14 ab 30.8.”
RHD 18/25 “Besondere Anlage 2 A zum Mob. Plan (Heer) – 1939/1940” A.O.K. 14/Abt. Ia Nr. 64/39, Secret, dated 29.08.1939
= Kreigsgliederung = T312 / R477 “Armeebefehl für die Befehlsübernahme durch Gen.Kdo.
RHD 18/26 “Besondere Anlage 2 A zum Mob. Plan (Heer) – 1939/1940” XXII. AK und XVIII. AK”.
= Kreigsgliederung / Neuaufstellungen seit Kriegsbeginn= A.O.K. 14/Abt. Ia Nr. 76/39, Secret, dated 31.08.1939
RHD 18/27 “Besondere Anlage 2 A zum Mob. Plan (Heer) – 1939/1940” T312 / R477 “Gliederung der in Strassenbau eingesetzten Einheiten”
= Soll an Kopfzahl, Tiere, Fahrzeuge, Kraftfahrzeuge = A.O.K. 14, Ia Nr. 38/39, Secret, dated 30.08.1939
RHD 18/28 “Besondere Anlage 2 A zum Mob. Plan (Heer) – 1939/1940” T314 / R550 “Befehl für die Negugliederung der 10. Armee”
= Soll an Waffen = A.O.K. 10/Abt. Ia Nr. 100/39, Secret, dated 27.08.1939
RHD 18/29 “Besondere Anlage 2 A zum Mob. Plan (Heer) – 1939/1940” T314 / R660 “Kriegsgliederung der 3. Armee”
= Soll an Munition = A.O.K. 3
RHD 18/46 “Besondere Anlage 8 zum Mob. Plan (Heer) – 1939/1940” T398 / R430 “Kriegsgliederung des Heeres-Gruppenkommandos ‘Süd’”
= Gültigkeitsliste der Kriegstärke- und Ausrüstungsnachweisungen = Generalstab des Heeres, Organisationsabteilung
PUBLISHED
i
GERMAN NUMBERED MOTORIZED SOFT-SKINNED VEHICLES
Kfz. German Nomenclature Description Makes & Models
NOTES:
The early armored cars (Kraftfahrzeug 13 and 14) were obviously not soft-skinned
vehicles. It is not clear why they were included within this listing and not in the
special military motor vehicle (Sonderkraftfahrzeug) listing.
ii
GERMAN NUMBERED MOTORIZED SOFT-SKINNED VEHICLES
Kfz. German Nomenclature Description Makes & Models
iii
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY VEHICLES
Sd.Kfz. German Designation Description
No. « German Abbreviation » Main Armament [Ammunition carried]
2 Kleines Kettenkrad 0.5-ton light halftrack
« KK » n/a
2 /1 Kleines Kettenkrad (Feldfernkabel) 0.5-ton halftrack with telephone cable
« KK (FFK) » n/a
2 /2 Kleines Kettenkrad (schwere Feldfernkabel) 0.5-ton halftrack with heavy telephone cable
« KK (s. FFK) » n/a
3 Gleisketten-Lastkraftwagen 2-ton (Maultier) halftracked 2-ton truck
« 2-ton Maultier » n/a
3 /4 Gleisketten-Lastkraftwagen 2-ton (Maultier) (Krankenwagen) halftracked 2-ton ambulance
« 2-ton Maultier (KrKw) » n/a
3 /5 Gleisketten-Lastkraftwagen 4.5-ton (Maultier) halftracked 4.5-ton truck
« 4.5-ton Maultier » n/a
4 Gleisketten-Lastkraftwagen 3-ton (Maultier) gepanzert (Munitionskraftwagen) armored halftracked truck for ammunition transport
« gep. Maultier (muni) » [transports 20 150mm rockets]
4 /1 15cm Panzerwerfer 43 armored halftracked truck with rocket launcher
« Pz.Werf. 43 » 150mm rocket launcher (10 tubes) [20]
6 mittlerer Zugkraftwagen 5-ton (Pionier-Ausführung) 5-ton halftrack (engineer version)
« m. Zgkw. 5t (Pion. Ausf.) » n/a
6 /1 mittlerer Zugkraftwagen 5-ton (Artillerie-Ausführung) 5-ton halftrack (artillery version)
« m.Zgkw. 5t (Artl. Ausf.) » n/a
6 /2 3,7cm Flak 36 auf Fahrgestell m. Zugkraftwagen 5-ton self-propelled medium antiaircraft gun on 5-ton halftrack
« 3,7cm Flak (Sfl) auf lei. Zgkw. 5 t » 37mm Flak 18 or 36 [?]
7 mittlerer Zugkraftwagen 8-ton 8-ton halftrack
« m. Zgkw. 8t » n/a
7 /1 2cm Flakvierling auf Fahrgestell mittlerer Zugkraftwagen 8-ton self-propelled light quad antiaircraft gun on 8-ton halftrack
« 2cm Flakvierl. (Sf) auf Zgkw. 8t » 20mm quad Flak38 L/112.5 [600]
7 /2 3,7cm Flak 36 /Sfl) auf Fahrgestell mittlerer Zugkraftwagen 8-ton self-propelled antiaircraft gun on 8-ton halftrack
« 2cm Flakvierl. (Sf) auf Zgkw. 8t » 37mm Flak 36 L/98 [?]
7 /6 mittlerer Zugkraftwagen 8-ton (Flakmess) 8-ton halftrack for antiaircraft calibaration equipment
« Zgkw. 8t Flak-Mess » n/a
8 schwerer Zugkraftwagen 12-ton 12-ton halftrack
« s. Zgkw. 12t » n/a
8 8,8cm Flak (Sf) auf gepanzerter Zugkraftwagen 12-ton self-propelled heavy antiaircraft gun on armored halftrack
« 8,8cm Flak (Sf) auf gep. Zgkw. 12t » 88mm Flak L/56 [40]
9 schwerer Zugkraftwagen 18-ton 18-ton halftrack
« Zgkw. 18t » n/a
9 /1 schwerer Drehkranwagen (Hebekraft 6 ton) 18-ton halftrack with 6-ton revolving crane (manufactured by Bilstein)
« s. Drehkran (6 t) » n/a
9 /2 schwerer Drehkranwagen (Hebekraft 10 ton) 18-ton halftrack with 10-ton revolving crane (manufactured by Demag)
« s. Drehkran (10 t) » n/a
10 leichter Zugkraftwagen 1-ton 1-ton halftrack
« lei. Zgkw. 1t » n/a
10 /1 leichter Gasspürwagen 1-ton halftrack, light gas detection vehicle with sprinkler
« lei. Zgkw. (Gas-Spür) » n/a
10 /2 leichter Entgiftungskraftwagen 1-ton halftrack, light decontamination vehicle
« lei. Zgkw. (Entg.) » n/a
10 /3 leichter Sprühkraftwagen 1-ton halftrack, light bulk decontamination vehicle
« lei Zgkw. (Sprüh) » n/a
10 /4 2cm Flak (Sf) auf Fahrgestell leichter Zugkraftwagen 1-ton self-propelled light antiaircraft gun on 1-ton halftrack
« 2cm Flak (Sf) aud lei. Zgkw. 1t » 20mm Flak 30 L/112.5 [280]
10 /5 2cm Flak (Sf) auf gepanzerten Fahrgestell leichter Zugkraftwagen 1-ton self-propelled light antiaircraft gun on armored 1-ton halftrack
« 2cm Flak (Sf) auf gp. lei. Zgkw. 1t » 20mm Flak 38 L/112.5 [280]
11 leichter Zugkraftwagen 3-ton 3-ton halftrack
« lei. Zgkw. 3t » n/a
11 /1 Nebelkraftwagen 3-ton halftrack for towing rocket launchers
« m. Zgkw. (Nebel) » n/a [10,5cm Nbl.W. 35: 80 rockets; 15cm Nbl.W. 41: 36 rockets;
28/32cm Nebelwerfer 41: 12 rockets plus launching frames]
11 /2 mittlerer Entgiftungskraftwagen 3-ton halftrack, medium decontamination vehicle
« m. Zgkw. (Entg.) » n/a
11 /3 mittlerer Sprühkraftwagen 3-ton halftrack, medium chemical spraying vehicle (bulk decontamination)
« m. Zgkw. (Sprüh) » n/a
iv
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY VEHICLES
Sd.Kfz. ----German Designation Description
No. « German Abbreviation » Main Armament [Ammunition carried]
11 /4 Nebelkraftwagen 3-ton halftrack for towing 15cm rocket launchers
« m. Zgkw. (Nebel) » n/a [15cm Nbl.W. 41: 36 rockets; 21cm Nbl.W. 42: 10 rockets;
28/32cm Nebelwerfer 41: 4 rockets]
11 /5 Nebelkraftwagen 3-ton halftrack for towing 21cm rocket launchers
« m. Zgkw. (Nebel) » n/a [15cm Nbl.W. 41: 36 rockets; 21cm Nbl.W. 42: 10 rockets]
35 Bergepanzer armored recovery vehicle (T-34 or KV-I w/o turret)
« Berge-Pz. » n/a
101 Panzerkampfwagen I light tank
« Pz. I » 2 MG 13 [1525 – 2250]
– Panzerkampfwagen I, Ausf. F (n.A. verstärkt) light tank, reinforced armor, Model F
« Pz. I , n.A. » 2 MG 34 [2250]
– 4,7cm Pak(t)(Sf) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen I self-propelled antitank gun on Pz-I chassis
« 4,7cm Pak(t) auf Pz-I; [also 4,7cm(t) (mot S)] » 47mm Pak(t) L/43.4 [86]
– 15cm sIG 33 auf Panzerkampfwagen I, Ausf. B self-propelled heavy infantry gun on Pz-I chassis
« 15cm sIG33 auf Pz-I; [also 15cm sIG (mot S)] » 150mm L/43.4 [?]
– Pionier-Panzerwagen I Engineer vehicle (without turret) on Pz-I chassis
« Pion-Pz. I » n/a
111 Munitionsschlepper auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen I armored ammunition carrier based on Pz-I chassis
« Muni-Schlepper auf Pz-I » varied, depending upon ammuntion type carried
121 Panzerkampfwagen II light tank
« Pz. II » 20mm KwK 30 L/55 [180]
122 Flamm-Panzer-II flame throwing tank on Pz-II basis
« Fl.Pz. II » [320 liters flame oil]
123 Panzerspähwagen II (Luchs 2cm) light, fully tracked recon tank on Pz-II basis
« lei. Pz-Späh. Wg. Luchs » 20mm KwK 38 L/55 [330]
123 Panzerspähwagen II (Luchs 5cm) light, fully tracked recon tank on Pz-II basis
« lei. Pz-Späh. Wg. Luchs » 50mm KwK L/60 [33]
124 lei. FH 18/2 Selbestfahrlafette auf Pz-II (Wespe) self-propelled light feld howitzter on Pz-II basis
« Wespe » 105mm le FH 18/2 [32]
– Munitions-Selbstfahrlafette auf Pz-II (Wespe) armored ammunition carrier for Wespe on same chassis
« Muni. Wespe » [transports 90 light field howitzer rounds]
– Geschützwagen II für 15cm sIG self-propelled heavy infantry gun
« 15cm sIG (sfl)» 150mm L/43.4 [30]
– Pionier-Panzerwagen II Engineer vehicle (without turret) on Pz-II chassis
« Pion-Pz. II » n/a
131 Panzer-Selbstfahrlafette für 7,5cm Pak 40/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II self-propelled antitank gun on Pz-II chassis
« Marder II; [also 7,5cm Pak 40 (Sf) auf Pz-II; also Pz Sf 2] » 75mm Pak L/43 [37]
132 Panzer-Selbstfahrlafette für 7.62cm Pak 36(r) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II self-propelled antitank gun on Pz-II chasssis (Models D and E)
« Marder II; [also 7,62cm Pak 36(r)(Sf) auf Pz-II; also Pz Sf 1] » 76.2mm Pak(r) L/51.5 [30]
135 75mm Pak auf Lorraine-Schlepper (Marder I) self-propelled heavy antitank gun on Lorraine basis
« Marder I » 75mm s FH Pak 40/1 [?]
135 /1 s. FH 13/1 Selbestfahrlafette auf Lorraine-Schlepper self-propelled heavy feld howitzter on Lorraine basis
« s.FH (sfl) auf Lorraine » 150mm s FH 13/1 [8]
– Panzerkampfwagen 35 (t) Czech medium tank (designation changed from LTM 35 on 16.01.40)
« Pz-35(t) » 37mm A33 L/42 [72]
– Panzerbefehlwagen 35 (t) Czech medium command tank
« Pz-Bef-Wg 35(t) » 37mm A33 L/42 [?]
– Mörserwagen 35 (t) tracked prime mover for heavy mortar on Czech medium tank basis
« Mörs.Wg. 35(t) » n/a
– Zugkraftwagen 35 (t) tracked prime mover based on Czech medium tank
« Zgkw. 35(t) » n/a
– Panzerkampfwagen 38(t), Ausführung A – G Czech medium tank (designation changed from LTM 38 on 16.01.40)
« Pz-38(t) » 37mm A7 L/42 [90]
– Panzerbefehlwagen 38(t) Czech medium command tank
« Pz-Bef-Wg 38(t) » 37mm A7 L/42 [?]
138 Panzerjäger 38(t), Ausf. H für 7,5cm Pak self-propelled antitank gun on Pz-38(t) chassis
« Marder III » 75mm Pak 40/3 L/48 [38]
138 Panzerjäger 38(t), Ausf. M für 7,5cm Pak self-propelled antitank gun on Pz-38(t) chassis
« Marder III » 75mm Pak 40/3 L/48 [27]
138 Munitionsfahrzeug für 15cm s. IG selbstfahrlafette armored ammunition carrier for Bison on same chassis
« Muni. Fahrzeug für 15cm s.IG Sfl » [transports 40 infantry gun rounds]
v
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY VEHICLES
Sd.Kfz. German Designation Description
No. « German Abbreviation » Main Armament [Ammunition carried]
138 /1 s.IG auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) self-propelled heavy infantry gun on Pz-38(t) chassis
« s.IG (sfl) Grille» 150 sIG 33/1 L/11 [15]
138 /2 Jagdpanzer 38 light tank destroyer on Pz-38(t) basis
« Hetzer » 75mm Pak 39 L/48 [41]
– Flammpanzer 38 flame tank based on Hetzer hull
« Flamm-Pz 38 » [700 liters flame oil]
– Bergepanzer 38 recovery tank based on Hetzer hull
« Berge-Pz 38 » n/a
– 15cm schwerer Infanteriegeschütz 33/2 auf Jagdpanzer 38 self-propelled heavy infantry gun based on Hetzer hull
« 15cm sIG 33/2 auf PzJg 38(t) » 150mm sIG 33/2 [?]
139 Panzerjäger 38(t) für 7,62cm Pak 36(r) self-propelled antitank gun on Pz-38(t) chassis
« Marder III » 76.2mm Pak(r) L/51.5 [30]
140 Flakpanzer 38 Self-propelled antiaircraft gun based on Czech Pz-38(t)
« Flak-Pz-38 » 20mm Flak 38 [540]
140 /1 Aufklärungspanzer 38(t) (2cm) Czech reconnaissance tank based on Pz-38(t)
« Aufkl-Pz-38(t) (2cm) » 20mm KwK 38 [108]
140 /1 Aufklärungspanzer 38(t) (7,5cm) Czech reconnaissance support tank based on Pz-38(t)
« Aufkl-Pz-38(t) (7,5cm) » 75mm KwK 37 L/24 [?]
141 Panzerkampfwagen III, Ausführung A – G medium tank, Models A – G
« Pz. III (3,7cm) » 37mm KwK 35/36 L/45 [120]
141 Panzerkampfwagen III, Ausführung H – J medium tank, Models H – J
« Pz. III (5cm); [also Pz-III (kz)] » 50mm KwK L/42 [99]
141 /1 Panzerkampfwagen III, Ausführung J – L medium tank, Model J – L
« Pz. III (5cm); [also Pz-III (lg)] » 50mm KwK L/60 [84 – 78]
141 /2 Panzerkampfwagen III, Ausf. M – N medium tank, Models M – N
«Pz. III (7,5cm) » 75mm KwK 37 L/24 [84 – 64]
141 /3 Flammpanzer III medium flame-throwing tank
« Flamm-Pz. III » [1020 liters flame oil]; MG [3750]
– SturmInfanteriegeschütz 33B self-propelled, armored heavy infantry gun on Sturmgeschütz basis
« St. Inf. Gesch. 33 « 150mm Stu IG L/11 [30]
142 7,5cm Sturmgeschütz 40, Ausführung A – D assault gun, Model A – D
« Sturmgeschütz III [also: Stu. Gesch. III] » 75mm StuK 37 L/24 [44]
142 7,5cm Sturmgeschütz 40, Ausführung E assault gun, Model E
« Sturmgeschütz III [also: Stu. Gesch. III] » 75mm StuK 37 L/24 [50]
142 7,5cm Sturmgeschütz 40, Ausführung F assault gun, Model F
« Sturmgeschütz III [also: Stu. Gesch. III] » 75mm StuK 37 L/24 [44]
142 /1 7,5cm Sturmgeschütz 40, Ausführung F8 – G assault gun, Model F8 – G
« Sturmgeschütz III [also: Stu. Gesch. III] » 75mm StuK40 L/43 [54]
142 /2 7,5cm Sturmhaubitze, Ausführung F – G assault howitzer, Model F – G
« Sturmhaubitze III [also: Stu. Haub. III] » 105mm StuH 42 L/28 [36]
143 Panzer-Beobachtungswagen III armored artillery observation tank
« Pz. Beob. Pz. III » MG [2100]
161 Panzerkampfwagen IV, Ausführung A - F1 medium tank, Models A – F1
« Pz. IV [also: Pz-IV(kz)] » 75mm KwK 37 L/24 [80]
161 /1 Panzerkampfwagen IV, Ausführung F2 – G medium tank, Models F2 – G
« Pz. IV [also: Pz-IV(lg)] » 75mm KwK 40 L/43 [87]
161 /2 Panzerkampfwagen IV, Ausführung H – J medium tank, Models H – J
« Pz. IV [also: Pz-IV(lg)] » 75mm KwK 40 L/48 [87]
161 /3 Flakpanzer-IV antiaircraft tank
« Flak-Pz 3,7cm [Ostwind] » 37mm Flak 43 L/98 [400]
161 /4 Flakpanzer-IV antiaircraft tank
« Flak-Pz 2cm-Vierling [Wirbelwind] » 20mm quad Flak 38 [1000]
– Panzer-Flak Sfl IV antiaircraft tank
« Pz-Flak IV [Möbelwagen] » 37mm Flak 43 L/98 [416]
162 7,5cm Pak 39 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen IV self-propelled heavy antitank gun on Pz-IV basis
« Jagdpanzer IV » 75mm Pak 39 L/48 [79]
162 /1 7,5cm StuK 42 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen IV, Ausführung A tank destroyer on Pz-IV basis
« Panzer-IV/70 (A) » 75mm StuK 42 L/70 [55]
162 /1 7,5cm StuK 42 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen IV, Ausführung V tank destroyer on Pz-IV basis
« Panzer-IV/70 (V) » 75mm StuK 42 L/70 [55]
vi
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY VEHICLES
Sd.Kfz. German Designation Description
No. « German Abbreviation » Main Armament [Ammunition carried]
163 7,5cm Sturmgeschütz IV assault gun based on Pz-IV
« Sturmgeschütz IV [also: StuG IV] » 75mm StuK40 L/48 [63]
164 8,8cm Pak 43/1 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen III/IV (Hornisse) self-propelled heavy antitank gun on mixed Pz-III/IV basis
« Hornisse; [as of 1944: Nashorn] » 88mm Pak 43/1 L/71 [40]
165 s. Panzerhaubitze 18/1 auf Fahrgestell III/IV (Hummel) self-propelled heavy field howitzer on mixed Pz-III/IV basis
« Hummel » 150mm sFH 18/1 [18]
– Munitionsfahrzeug für 15cm s. IG selbstfahrlafette armored ammunition carrier for Hummel on same chassis
« Muni. Fahrzeug für 15cm s.IG Sfl » [transports 60 heavy field howitzer rounds]
165 /1 leichte Feldhaubitze (Sfl) / Geschützwagen IVb self-propelled light field howitzer on Pz-IV basis
« leFH (sfl) » 105mm leFH 18/1 [60]
166 s. IG auf Panzerkampfwagen-IV Fahrgestell (Sturmpanzer) armored, self-propelled heavy infantry gun on Pz-IV chassis
« Stu-Pz IV [aka Brummbär] » 150mm StuH 43 L/12 [38]
– 10,5cm Kanone 18 auf Panzer-Selbstfahrlafette IVa self-propelled gun on Pz-IV chassis
« 10,5cm K18 auf Pz-Sfl IVa » 105mm StuK 18/1 L/52 [25]
171 Panzerkampfwagen V (Panther), Ausführung D, A medium tank, Models D and A
« Panther » 75mm KwK 42 L/70 [79]
171 Panzerkampfwagen V (Panther), Ausführung G medium tank, Models G
« Panther » 75mm KwK 42 L/70 [82]
173 Jagdpanzer V tank destroyer on Panther basis
« Jagdpanther » 88mm Pak 43/3 L/71 [57]
179 Bergepanther armored recoverey vehicle on Pather basis
« Berge-Pz-V » 20mm KwK 38 [?]
181 Panzerkampfwagen VI (Tiger I), Ausführung E heavy tank, Model E
« Tiger I » 88mm KwK 36 L/56 [92]
– Panzer-Mörser 38cm auf VI (Tiger) self-propelled heavy rocket launcher on Pz-VI(I) chassis
« Sturmtiger » 380mm rocket laucher [12]
182 Panzerkampfwagen VI (Tiger II), Ausführung B heavy tank
« Tiger II [aka Königstiger] » 88mm KwK 43 L/71 [72–84]
184 Panzerjäger Tiger (P) für 8,8cm Pak 43 (Ferdinand) self-propelled, heavy antitank gun on prototype Pz-VI chassis
« Ferdinand; [later Elefant] » 88mm StuK 43/1 L/71 [55]
186 schwere Panzerjäger, Ausführung B heavy tank destroyer
« Jagdtiger» 128mm Pak 44 L/55 [40]
221 leichter Panzerspähwagen (MG) light armored car (4x4)
« lei. Pz-Späh. Wg. (MG) » MG [1020]
221 leichter Panzerspähwagen (schwere Panzerbüchse 41) light armored car (4x4)
« le. Pz-Späh. Wg. (sPzBü 41) » 28mm sPzBü 41 [180]
222 leichter Panzerspähwagen (2cm) light armored car (4x4)
« le. Pz-Späh. Wg. (2cm) » 20mm KwK 38 L/55 [180]
223 leichter Panzerspähwagen (Funk) light armored radio car (4x4)
« le. Pz-Späh. Wg. (Fu) » MG [1050]
231 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (2cm)(6-Rad) heavy armored car (6x4)
« s. Pz-Späh. Wg. (2cm) » 20mm KwK 30 L/55 [200]
232 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (Funk)(6-Rad) heavy armored radio car (6x4)
« s. Pz-Späh. Wg. (Fu) » 20mm KwK 30 L/55 [200]
231 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (2cm)(8-Rad) heavy armored car (8x8)
« s. Pz-Späh. Wg. (2cm) 8-Rad » 20mm KwK 30 L/55 [180]
232 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (Funk)(8-Rad) heavy armored radio car (8x8)
« s. Pz-Späh. Wg. (Fu) 8-Rad » 20mm KwK 30 L/55 [180]
233 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (7,5cm)(8-Rad) heavy armored radio car (8x8)
« s. Pz-Späh. Wg. (7,5cm) 8-Rad » 75mm StuK 37 L/24 [32]
234 /1 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (2cm) heavy armored car (8x8)
« Pz-Späh. Wg. (2cm) » 20mm KwK 30 L/55 [250]
234 /2 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (5cm) heavy armored car (8x8)
« Pz-Späh. Wg. (2cm) [aka Puma] » 50mm KwK 39/1 L/60 [55]
234 /3 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (7,5cm) heavy armored car (8x8)
« Pz-Späh. Wg. (7,5cm) » 75mm K-51 L/24 [50]
234 /4 schwerer Panzerspähwagen (7,5cm Pak) heavy armored car (8x8)
« Pz-Späh. Wg. (7,5cm Pak) » 75mm Pak 40 [12]
247 schwerer geländegängiger gepanzerter Personenkraftwagen (4-Rad) heavy armored staff car (4x4)
« s. gl. gep. PKW » n/a
247 schwerer geländegängiger gepanzerter Personenkraftwagen (6-Rad) heavy armored staff car (6x4)
« s. gl. gep. PKW » n/a
vii
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY VEHICLES
Sd.Kfz. German Designation Description
No. « German Abbreviation » Main Armament [Ammunition carried]
250 /1 leichter Schützenpanzerwagen light armored halftrack, personnel carrier
« le. SPW » MG [2010]
250 /1 leichter Schützenpanzerwagen light armored halftrack, heavy machine gun section carrier
« le. SPW » MG [2010]
250 /2 leichter Fernsprechpanzerwagen light armored halftrack, telephone & wire carrier
« le. Fe. Pzwg. » MG [1100]
250 /3 leichter Funkpanzerwagen light armored halftrack, radio carrier
« le. Fu. Pzwg. » MG [1100]
250 /4 leichter Beobachtungs-Panzerwagen light armored halftrack, obervation vehicle
« le. Beob. Pzwg. » MG [1100]
250 /5 leichter Beobachtungspanzerwagen light armored halftrack, observation vehicle
« le. Beob. Pzwg. » MG [2010]
250 /5 leichter Aufklärungspanzerwagen light armored halftrack, reconnaissance vehicle
« le. Beob. Pzwg. » MG [2010]
250 /6 leichter Munitionspanzerwagen light armored halftrack, ammunition carrier
« le. Muni. Pzwg. » MG [1100] [transports 70 L/24 or 60 L/43 rounds]
250 /7(I) leichter Schützenpanzerwagen (schwere Granatwerfer) light armored halftrack, mortar carrier
« le. SPW (Gr Wfr) » 81mm mortar [42]
250 /7(II) leichter Schützenpanzerwagen (Munitionsfahrzeug) light armored halftrack, 81mm mortar ammunition carrier
« le. SPW (Muni) » MG [2010] [transports 66 mortar rounds]
250 /8 leichter Kanonenpanzerwagen (7,5cm) light armored halftrack, support vehicle
« le. SPW (2cm) » 75mm KwK 51 L/24 [20]
250 /9 leichter Schützenpanzerwagen (2cm) light armored halftrack, reconnaissance vehicle
« le. SPW (2cm) » 20mm KwK 38 [100]
250 /10 leichter Schützenpanzerwagen (3,7cm Pak) light armored halftrack, Platoon Leader vehicle
« le. SPW (3,7cm) » 37mm Pak L/45 [216]
250 /11 leichter Schützenpanzerwagen (schwere Panzerzbüchse 41) light armored halftrack, Platoon Leader vehicle
« le. SPW (sPzBü 41) » 28mm PzBü 41 [168]
250 /11 leichter Messtrupp-Auswertungs-Panzerwagen light armored halftrack, Calibration Section vehicle
« le. Mess-Trupp-Pzwg. » MG [1040]
251 /1 mittlerer Schützenpanzerwagen medium armored halftrack, personnel carrier
« m. SPW » MG [2010]
251 /2 mittlerer Schützenpanzerwagen (Granatwerfer) medium armored halftrack, mortar carrier
« m. SPW (Gr Wfr) » 81mm mortar [66]
251 /3 mittlerer Funkpanzerwagen medium armored halftrack, radio carrier
« m. Fu. Pzwg. » MG [2010]
251 /4 mittlerer Schützenpanzerwagen (Infanteriegeschütz) medium armored halftrack, light IG prime-mover
« m. SPW (IG) » MG [1100] [transports 120 rounds of 75mm ammo]
251 /5 mittlerer Pionierpanzerwagen medium armored halftrack, engineer vehicle
« m. Pion. Pzwg. » MG [4800]
251 /6 mittlerer Kommandopanzerwagen medium armored halftrack, command vehicle
« m. Pion. Pzwg. » MG [1100]
251 /7 mittlerer Pionierpanzerwagen medium armored halftrack, engineer vehicle
« m. Pion. Pzwg. » MG [4800]
251 /8 mittlerer Krankenpanzerwagen medium armored halftrack, ambulance
« m. Kranken-Pzwg. » n/a
251 /9 mittlerer Schützenpanzerwagen (7,5cm) medium armored halftrack, self-propelled light gun
« m. SPW (7,5cm) » 75mm KwK 37 L/24 [32]
251 /10 mittlerer Schützenpanzerwagen (3,7cm Pak) medium armored halftrack, Platoon Leader vehicle
« m. SPW (3,7cm) » 37mm Pak L/45 [168]
251 /10 mittlerer Schützenpanzerwagen (sPzBü) medium armored halftrack, Platoon Leader vehicle
« m. SPW (sPzBü) » 28mm sPzBü 41 L/28/20 [168]
251 /11 mittlerer Fernsprech-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, telephone cable-laying vehicle
« m. SPW (Fe) » MG [1100]
251 /12 mittlerer Meßtrupp- und Gerät-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, Calibration Section equipment vehicle
« m. Meßtrupp Pzwg. » MG [1100]
251 /13 mittlerer Schallaufnahme-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, sound recording vehicle
« m. Schall-Aufnahme-Pzwg. » MG [1100]
251 /14 mittlerer Schallauswerte-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, sound ranging vehicle
« m. Schall-Auswerte-Pzwg. » MG [1100]
viii
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY VEHICLES
Sd.Kfz. German Designation Description
No. « German Abbreviation » Main Armament [Ammunition carried]
251 /15 mittlerer Lichtauswerte-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, sound flash ranging vehicle
« m. Licht-Auswerte-Pzwg. » MG [1100]
251 /16 mittlerer Flamm-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, with 2 pivoted flame throwers
« m. SPW (Flamm) » 80 bursts of 2 – 3 seconds (700 liters flame oil); MG [2100]
251 /17 mittlerer Flak-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, self-propelled light antiaircraft gun
« m. SPW (2cm) » 20mm Flak 38 [600]
251 /18 mittlerer Beobachtungs-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, observation vehicle
« m. Beob-Pzwg. » MG [1100]
251 /19 mittlerer Fernsprech.Betriebs-Panzerwagen medium armored halftrack, telephone operations vehicle
« m. Fs.Betr.-Pzwg. » MG [1100]
251 /20(I) mittlerer Panzerwagen (Uhu) medium armored halftrack, infrared projector vehicle
« m. Pzwg. (Uhu) » MG [1100]
251 /20(II) mittlerer Panzerwagen (Falke) medium armored halftrack, infrared viewer vehicle
« m. Pzwg. (Falke) » MG [1100]
251 /21 mittlerer Panzerwagen (MG 151/15 Drilling) medium armored halftrack, self-propelled light antiaircraft gun
« m. SPW (MG 1,5cm) » 15mm triple MG 151/15 [3000]
251 /21 mittlerer Panzerwagen (MG 151/20 Drilling) medium armored halftrack, self-propelled light antiaircraft gun
« m. SPW (MG 2cm) » 20mm triple MG 151/20 [3000]
251 /22 mittlerer Panzerwagen (7,5cm Pak) medium armored halftrack, self-propelled antitank gun
« m. SPW (7,5cm Pak) » 75mm Pak 40 L/48 [22]
251 /23 mittlerer Panzerwagen (2cm Flak) medium armored halftrack, self-propelled light antiaircraft gun
« m. SPW (2cm Flak) » 20mm KwK 38 L/55 [180]
252 leichter gepanzerter Munitionswagen light armored halftrack, ammunition carrier
« le. gep. Muni-Wg. » MG [1020]
253 leichter gepanzerter Beobachtungswagen light armored halftrack, observation vehicle
« le. gep. Beob. Wg. » MG [1100]
254 mittlerer gepanzerter Beobachtungswagen medium armored wheeled/tracked observation vehicle
« m. gep. Beob. Wg. » MG [1100]
260 kleiner Panzerfunkwagen light armored radio car (4x4)
« kl. Pz. Fu. Wg. » n/a
261 kleiner Panzerfunkwagen light armored radio car (4x4)
« kl. Pz. Fu. Wg. » n/a
263 schwerer Panzerfunkwagen heavy armored radio car (6x4)
« s. Pz. Fu. Wg. » MG [1020]
266 Panzerbefehlswagen command tank based on Pz-III, Pz-IV, Pz-V, or Pz-VI
« gr. Pz-Bef-Wg. » MG [1500]
267 Panzerbefehlswagen command tank based on Pz-III, Pz-IV, Pz-V, or Pz-VI
« gr. Pz-Bef-Wg. » MG [1500]
268 Panzerbefehlswagen command tank based on Pz-III, Pz-IV, Pz-V, or Pz-VI
« gr. Pz-Bef-Wg. » MG [1500]
300 Minenräumwagen B-I & B-II tracked mineclearing vehicle, Model B-I & B-II
« Minenräum-Wg. » n/a
301 schwere Ladungsträger B-IV tracked, remote-controlled demolition vehicle, Model B-IV
« B-IV » n/a
302 Leichte Ladungsträger Goliath, Ausf. A tracked, remote-controlled demolition vehicle, Model A (electric)
« Goliath » n/a
303 Leichte Ladungsträger Goliath, Auf. B tracked, remote-controlled demolition vehicle, Model B (gasoline)
« Goliath » n/a
304 mittlere Ladungsträger tracked, remote-controlled demolition vehicle
« Springer » n/a
Notes:
For the sake of completeness, this list includes the unnumbered vehicles belonging to
the same family of vehicles.
ix
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY TRAILERS AND MILITARY TRAILERS
German Trailers
Besides the numbered trailers listed below, there were also trailers without numbers. Some horse-drawn wagon and carts were issued with towing bars allowing them to
These were identified by load factor, number of axles, open or covered, and/or be towed by motor vehicles.
purpose. Furthermore, upon mobilization, the German military requisitioned trail-
ers from the civilian sector. These trailers were strictly for use by road-bound units, It was not unusual, specially in the non-motorized units, that unmodified horse-
and only found in rear-echelon units where they provided a valuable increase in drawn vehicles be towed by motor vehicles. Naturally at comparatively low speeds.
transportation capacity. There were even trailers built specifically for towing horse
drawn equipment with motor vehicles. Although many combat units had trailers for guns, ammunition, components of heavy
guns, generators, bridging equipment, etc., convoy speed of all vehicles was reduced
A few military horse-drawn vehicles (wagons and carts) were modified for towing when towing trailer, and maneuverability was hampered off-road. However, the
by motor vehicles by the addition of wheel and parking brakes, rubber-rimmed or expense of motor vehicles made the use of trailers an attractive alternative.
even pneumatic tires, rear lights, and towing arrangements.
x
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY TRAILERS AND MILITARY TRAILERS
Sd.Anh. 109 (2 Achsig) leichter Vermessungsanhänger ............................................... trailer (2 axle) for light calibration equipment
Sd.Anh. 111 (2 Achsig) schwerer Vermessungsanhänger ............................................. trailer (2 axle) for heavy calibration equipment
Sd.Anh. 113 (3 Achsig) für Langerät (8 ton) ................................................................ trailer (3 axle) for cargo, long (8 ton)
Sd.Anh. 115 Tiefladeanhänger für PzKfpWg 10–12 ton .............................................. trailer (2 axle) low boy (also: low bed) for armored vehicles (10 – 12 ton)
Sd.Anh. 116 Tiefladeanhänger für PzKfpWg 22 ton .................................................... trailer (4 axle) low boy (also: low bed) for armored vehicles (22 ton)
Sd.Anh. 119 (2 Achsig) für 100 PS-Motorboot ............................................................ trailer (2 axle) for motorboat (100 HP Type MB 41)
Sd.Anh. 120 (2 Achsig) für 250 PS-Motorboot ............................................................ trailer (2 axle) for motorboat (250 HP Type MB 42)
Sd.Anh. 121 Tiefladeanhänger für PzKfpWg 65 ton .................................................... trailer (6 axle) low boy (also: low bed) for armored vehicles (65 ton)
Sd.Anh. 127 (2 Achsig) Mastanhänger ......................................................................... trailer (2 axle) for mast antenna
Sd.Anh. 141 (2 Achsig) für Pionier-Landungs-Fahrzeug 20-ton .................................. trailer (2 axle) for engineer landing vehicle (20ton)
Sd.Anh. 201 (2 Achsig) für 8,8cm Flak ........................................................................ trailer (2 axle) for 8.8cm antiaircraft gun
Sd.Anh. 202 (2 Achsig) für 8,8cm Flak 37/37 .............................................................. trailer (2 axle) for 8.8cm antiaircraft gun Model 36/38
Sd.Anh. 202 (2 Achsig) für 8,8cm Flak 41 ................................................................... trailer (2 axle) for 8.8cm antiaircraft gun Model 41
Sd.Anh. 203 (2 Achsig) für 10,5cm Flak 38/39 ............................................................ trailer (2 axle) for 10.5cm antiaircraft gun Model 38/39
Sd.Anh. 203 (2 Achsig) für Fahrgerüst für schwere 12,8cm Flak (o) .......................... trailer (2 axle) for mobilizing the static, heavy 12,8cm antiaircraft gun
Sd.Anh. 203 (2 Achsig) Transportbrücke für 12,8cm Flak-Zwilling ............................ trailer (2 axle) for 12.8cm twin antiaircraft gun
Sd.Anh. 204 (2 Achsig) für 5cm Flak 41 ...................................................................... trailer (2 axle) for 5cm antiaircraft gun Model 41
Sd.Anh. 204 (2 Achsig) für 200cm Flak-Scheinwerfer ................................................ trailer (2 axle) for 200cm antiaircraft searchlight
Sd.Anh. 204 (2 Achsig) für Maschinensatz für 200cm Flak-Scheinwerfer .................. trailer (2 axle) for generator for 200cm antiaircraft searchlight
Sd.Anh. 204 (2 Achsig) für Maschinensatz 60 kW ...................................................... trailer (2 axle) for generator Model 60Kw
Sd.Anh. 204 (2 Achsig) für Sperrballonwinde ............................................................. trailer (2 axle) for winch for barrage ballon
Sd.Anh. 205 (2 Achsig) Rohrwagen für 10,5cm Flak ................................................... trailer (2 axle) for barrel wagon for 10.5cm antiaircraft gun
Sd.Anh. 206 (2 Achsig) für 5,5cm Flak 58 ................................................................... trailer (2 axle) for 5.5cm antiaircraft gun Model 58
Sd.Anh. 206 (2 Achsig) für 3,7cm Flak-Zwilling 43 .................................................... trailer (2 axle) for 3.7cm dual antiaircraft gun Model 43
Sd.Anh. 206 (2 Achsig) für 200cm Flak-Scheinwerfer 44 ........................................... trailer (2 axle) for 200cm antiaircraft searchlight Model 44
Sd.Anh. 206 (2 Achsig) für Maschinensatz 120 kW .................................................... trailer (2 axle) for generator Model 120Kw
Sd.Anh. 206 (2 Achsig) für Funkmessgerät ................................................................. trailer (2 axle) for antiaircraft radar
Sd.Anh. 206 (2 Achsig) für Flakrakete H3 117 “Schmetterling” ................................. trailer (2 axle) for antiaircraft rocket Model Hs 117 “Schmetterling” (Butterfly)
Sd.Anh. 220 (4 Achsig) für Funkmessgerät ................................................................ trailer (4 axle) for radar system
Sd.Anh. 220 (4 Achsig) für 12,8cm Flak 40/1 ............................................................. trailer (4 axle) for 12.8cm antiaircraft gun Model 40/1
Sd.Anh. 301 (1 Achsig) für Tankspritze ...................................................................... trailer (1 axle) for fire engine equipment (auxiliary for the fire engine)
Sd.Anh. 302 (1 Achsig) für Schlauchtender ................................................................ trailer (1 axle) for mobile fire fighting (for independent operation)
Sd.Anh. 319 für Fla-Rakete “Wasserfall” .................................................................... trailer for antiaircraft rocket “Wasserfall” (Waterfall)
Sd.Anh. 322 für A2 (o) 7,5-ton mit geschlossenem Aufbau ......................................... trailer for rocket A2 (o) with enclosed body (7.5 ton)
Sd.Anh. 322/2 für Landescheinwerfer (GI 1500) ............................................................ trailer for 1500cm landing searchligh Model GI 1500
Sd.Anh. 322/3 für Landescheinwerfer (HgLL 1500) ....................................................... trailer for 1500cm landing searchligh Model Hg LL 150
Sd.Anh. 350 für B2 (3-ton) (o) mit geschlossenem Aufbau ......................................... trailer B2 with enclosed body (civilian type)(3-ton)
Sd.Anh. 350/7 Fernsprechvermittlungs-Anhänger .......................................................... telephone exchange trailer
Sd.Anh. 350/32 Leuchtfeueranhänger ............................................................................... generator trailer for airfield beacons
Sd.Anh. 350/33 Leuchtfeueranhänger ............................................................................... generator trailer for airfield beacons
Sd.Anh. 350/32 Prüf- und Wartungs-Anhänger für Bordfunk- und Peilgerät .................... trailer for maintenance and testing of aircraft radio and radar equipment
Sd.Anh. 350/43 Prüf- und Wartungs-Anhänger für Bordfunk- und Peilgerät .................... trailer for maintenance and testing of aircraft radio and radar equipment
Sd.Anh. 350/? Anhänger B2 für Ladestation FR ............................................................. trailer B2 with enclosed body (civilian type)(3-ton) for battery charger for V2 rocket units
Sd.Anh. 363 für B3 (4,5-ton) (o) mit geschlossenem Aufbau ...................................... trailer B3 with enclosed body (civilian type)(4.5-ton)
Sd.Anh. 363/1 für B3 (4,5-ton) (o) für Bildbearbeitung ................................................. trailer B3 with enclosed body (civilian type)(4.5-ton) for photograph production Type I
Sd.Anh. 363/2 für B3 (4,5-ton) (o) für Bildbearbeitung ................................................. trailer B3 with enclosed body (civilian type)(4.5-ton) for photograph production Type II
Sd.Anh. 401 (1 Achsig) Feldküche als Anhänger ......................................................... trailer (1 axle) mobile field kitchen (“Gulaschkanone”)
Sd.Anh. 422 (1 Achsig) Navigations-Funkpeilanhänger .............................................. trailer (1 axle) for direction finding equipment for navigation
Sd.Anh. 447 (2 Achsig) Navigations-Funkpeilanhänger .............................................. trailer (2 axle) for direction finding equipment for navigation
Sd.Anh. 450 (2 Achsig) Tragflächen 6 Meter ............................................................... trailer (2 axle) for transporting wings (6 meters)
Sd.Anh. 451 (2 Achsig) Tragflächen 10 Meter ............................................................. trailer (2 axle) for transporting wings (10 meters)
Sd.Anh. 450 (2 Achsig) Tragflächen 6 Meter ............................................................... trailer (2 axle) for wings (6 meters)
Sd.Anh. 454 (2 Achsig) Flugbetriebsstoffkessel-Anhänger ......................................... trailer (2 axle) bowser for aircraft fuel
Sd.Anh. 458 (2 Achsig) Waffenabwurfgerät-Anhänger ................................................ trailer (2 axle) for bomb transport
Sd.Anh. 459 (2 Achsig) Waffenabwurfgerät-Anhänger ................................................ trailer (2 axle) for bomb transport
Sd.Anh. 469 (2 Achsig) Fernschreib-Anschlussanhänger ............................................ trailer (2 axle) with enclosed body for telephone switchboard
Sd.Anh. 470 (2 Achsig) Funkanhänger (Kurz- /Langwelle) ......................................... trailer (2 axle) with enclosed body for short and medium wave radio station
Sd.Anh. 471 (2 Achsig) Betriebs-Funkempfängeranhänger ......................................... trailer (2 axle) with enclosed body for radio receiver operation station
Sd.Anh. 472 (2 Achsig) leichter Leuchtfeueranhänger ................................................ trailer (2 axle) with enclosed body light generator for airfield beacons
Sd.Anh. 473 (2 Achsig) mittlerer Leuchtfeueranhänger ............................................... trailer (2 axle) with enclosed body medium generator for airfield beacons
xi
GERMAN SPECIAL MILITARY TRAILERS AND MILITARY TRAILERS
(1 Achsig) Anhänger für Räudegaszellen ................................................................................. trailer (1 axle) for gas bottles (gas used against mange)
(1 Achsig) Anhänger für Verschluss-Sachen der Vermessungs- und Karten-Einheiten ........... trailer (1 axle) enclosed, lockable, for confidential material of the surveying and mapping units
(1 Achsig) Anhänger offen (o) für Veterinärgerät für Pferdelazarett ........................................ trailer (1 axle) civilian type, open, for veterinary equipment for veterinary hospital
(1 Achsig) Anhänger for V2.Abschussplattform ...................................................................... trailer (1 axle) for firing platform for V2 rocket units
(1 Achsig) Diesel-Eisbereiter als Anhänger ............................................................................. trailer (1 axle) for diesel powered ice maker
(1 Achsig) Brennschluss-Antennen-Anhänger für schiess Fernraketen-Batterien ................... trailer (1 axle) for antenna for establishing rocket-cutoff for V2 rocket units
(1 Achsig) Grosser Drucklufterzeuger als Anhänger ............................................................... trailer (1 axle) with large air compressor
(1 Achsig) Fallschirmjägerkarren als Anhänger für das Kettenkrad ......................................... cart (1 axle) for Kettenkrad for Fallschirmjäger (Parachute Infantry)
(1 Achsig) Grosse Feldküche als Anhänger ............................................................................. trailer (1axle) for mobile large field kitchen range
(1 Achsig) Festungskabellöttkarren ......................................................................................... cart (1 axle) for Fortress Signal Troops, with sodering and other equipment
(1 Achsig) Festungskabelmesskarren ....................................................................................... cart (1 axle) for Fortress Signal Troops, with calibration and other equipment
(1 Achsig) schweren Grabenpflug (Entgiftungspflug) als Anhänger ........................................ trailer (1 axle) heavy plow, originally for decontamination, but also used for entrenching
(1 Achsig) Handkarren für leichten Ladungswerfer der Pioniere ............................................ hand cart (1 axle) for light spigot mortar of the engineers
(1 Achsig) kleiner Kabeltrommel-Anhänger für Fernraketen-Einheit ..................................... trailer (1 axle) for light cable drums for V2 rocket units
(1 Achsig) Leitstrahl-Antennen-Anhänger für FR-Einheit ...................................................... trailer (1 axle) for guiding beam antenna for V2 rocket units
(1 Achsig) Leitstrahl-Kontroll-Anhänger für FR-Einheit ........................................................ trailer (1 axle) for guiding beam instrumentation for V2 rocket units
(1 Achsig) Lichtbogen-Schweissmaschinensatz auf Anhängerfahrgestell 1500 t .................... trailer (1 axle) arch welding equipment on chassis Model 41 (1500 kilos)
(1 Achsig) Maschinensatz 110/220 V 24 Kw als Anhänger fahrbar ......................................... trailer (1 axle) generator (110/220 Volts, 24 kW)
(1 Achsig) Maschinensatz 220 V 6,5 Kw als Anhänger fahrbar ............................................... trailer (1 axle) generator (220 Volts, 6.5 kW)
(1 Achsig) Maschinensatz 220 V (Wechselstrom) 15/18 KvA der Sanitätstruppe .................. trailer (1 axle) generator (220 Volts, AC, 15 kVA) for the Medical Troops
(1 Achsig) Maschinensatz 220/380 (Drehstrom) 30 KvA als Anhänger fahrbar ...................... trailer (1 axle) generator (220/380 Volts, DC, 30 kVA)
(1 Achsig) Motorspritze als Anhänger fahrbar (o) ................................................................... trailer (1 axle) motor water pump (civilian type)
(1 Achsig) Anhänger leichter Sprühanhänger .......................................................................... trailer (1 axle) light decontamination spray unit
(1 Achsig) Tragkraftspritzen-Anhänger (Tsga 8)(Bauart 1937) ............................................... trailer (1 axle) fire fighting equipment, including a portable water pump Type Tgsa 8/37
(1 Achsig) Tragkraftspritzen-Anhänger (Tsga 8)(Bauart 1939) ............................................... trailer (1 axle) fire fighting equipment, including a portable water pump Type Tgsa 8/39
(1 Achsig) Tragkraftspritzen-Anhänger (o) .............................................................................. trailer (1 axle) fire fighting equipment, civilan type, including a portable water pump
(1 Achsig) Troganhänger fürEntgiftungskraftwagen (Kfz. 305/112) des S.H.D. ..................... trailer (1 axle) for decontamination van of the S.H.D. (“Sicherheits- und Hilfedienst”)
(1 Achsig) T-Stoff-Vorwärmer-Anhänger für FR-Einheit ........................................................ trailer (1 axle) for warming fuel (T-Stoff = Hydrogensuperoxyd) for the V2 rocket units
(1 Achsig) Wasser-Anhänger 100 liter ..................................................................................... trailer (1 axle) bowser for water (1000 liters)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger A2 Einheits-Anhänger 1 t offen (o) ........................................................ trailer (2 axle) Standard Model A2, civilian type, open (1 ton)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger A2 als Schlauchhaspel für Schlauchkraftwagen (Kfz. 346) ................... trailer (2 axle) Standard Model A2, civilian type, open (1 ton), for hoses, towed by Kfz. 346
(2 Achsig) Anhänger B2 Einheits-Anhänger 3 t offen (o) ....................................................... trailer (2 axle) Standard Model B2, civilian type, open (3 ton)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger B2 mit Maschinensatz 220/380 V Drehstrom 60 KvA .......................... trailer (2 axle) Standard Model B2, for generator (220/380 Volts, DC, 60 kVA)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger B3 Einheits-Anhänger 4,5 t offen (o) .................................................... trailer (2 axle) Standard Model B3, civilian type, open (4.5 ton)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger E5 Einheits-Anhänger 5 t offen (o) ........................................................ trailer (2 axle) Standard Model E5, civilian type, open, (5 ton)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger E8 Einheits-Anhänger 8 t offen (o) ........................................................ trailer (2 axle) Standard Model E8, civilian type, open, (8 ton)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit Anlage zum Nachfüllen des Sauerstoffbedarf von Kampfflugzeuge trailer (2 axle) for filling Oxygen into fighter planes
(2 Achsig) Anhänger (Langholz) für 6 Auffahrtsschienen Brückengerät l.Z. ........................... trailer (2 axle) for 6 ramps of Type l.Z. bridge (long pole equipment)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit mittlerer Betriebsstoffkesselanlage (o) der Luftwaffe ..................... trailer (2 axle) with medium boiler tank for aviation fuel
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit schwererBetriebsstoffkesselanlage (o) der Luftwaffe ..................... trailer (2 axle) with heavy boiler tank for aviation fuel
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit Feldballonwinde 40 der Artillerie .................................................... trailer (2 axle) with winch for observation ballon Model 40 of the artillery
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit Flakkommandogerät Hazemeyer der Marine ................................... trailer (2 axle) with antiaircraft fire direction computer Model Hazemeyer
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit 2cm-Flak auf Socketlafette .............................................................. trailer (2 axle) for 2 cm antiaircraft gun Model 30 on pedestal base
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit Kessel für Flussigsauerstoff für Fernraketen ................................... trailer (2 axle) with tank for Liquid Oxygen for V2 rocket units
(2 Achsig) Anhänger mit Kurbelmast 30m der Nachrichtentruppen ........................................ trailer (2 axle) with extendable antenna (30 meters) for the Signal Troops
(2 Achsig) Anhänger 1,5 t für Raupenschlepper Ost ................................................................ trailer (2 axle) for Raupenschlepper Ost (1.5 ton)
(2 Achsig) Anhänger für Schleppboot 200 PS der Pioniere ..................................................... trailer (2 axle) for towing boat (200 HP) of the Engineers
(2 Achsig) Anhänger schwimmfähig für Land-Wasser-Schlepper (Kässbohrer) ...................... trailer (2 axle) for the amphibious truck (“LWS”)(made by Kässbohrer)
(2 Achsig) Entgiftungsgeräte-Anhänger für den Entgiftungsgerätekw. (Kfz. 305/12) ............. trailer (2 axle) for the decontamination equipment truck (Kfz. 305/12)
(2 Achsig) Kabeltrommel-Anhänger für FR-Einheiten ............................................................ trailer (2 axle) for cable drums for V2 rocket units
(2 Achsig) Kfz.Werkstatt-Anhänger für FR-Einheiten ............................................................ trailer (2 axle) with motor maintenance shop for V2 rocket units
(2 Achsig) Landebahn-Leutchanhänger ................................................................................... trailer (2 axle) for runway lighting
(2 Achsig) Luftverdichter-Anhänger für FR-Einheiten ............................................................ trailer (2 axle) for air compressor for V2 rockets
(2 Achsig) Omnibus-Anhänger (Kässebohrer Type P4 1939) .................................................. trailer (2 axle) for motor bus (bus Model P4 1939)(made by Kässebohrer)
(2 Achsig) Rohrwagen 40 für 12,8cm Flak 40 ......................................................................... trailer (2 axle) for 12,8cm antiaircraft gun barrel
(2 Achsig) Sägevollgater auf Anhänger .................................................................................... trailer (2 axle) for mobile buzzsaw
(2 Achsig) Scheinwerfer-Transportwagen für Scheinwerfer G150 (alter Art) ......................... trailer (2 axle) for 150cm searchlight Model G150 (old type)
(2 Achsig) Scheinwerfer-Transportwagen für Scheinwerfer G110 .......................................... trailer (2 axle) for 110cm searchlight Model G110
(2 Achsig) Strabo-Kran 16t als Anhänger ................................................................................ trailer (2 axle) for 16 ton collapsible crane (made by Strabo)
(2 Achsig) Tragflächen-Transportanhänger a & b (Bauart 39) ................................................. trailer (2 axle) for transport of aircraft wings Type a and b, Model 39
(2 Achsig) V2 Transport-Anhänger Vidal ................................................................................ trailer (2 axle) for transporting a V2 rocket (made by Vidal)
(2 Achsig) Wasserstoffverdichter-Anhänger 41+42 ................................................................. trailer (2 axle) for Hydrogen compression Model 41+42
(2 Achsig) Wasserstoffentwickler-Anhänger 40+41 ................................................................ trailer (2 axle) for Hydrogen developing Model 40+41
(3 Achsig) Anhänger 8 t für 800 PS Motorboot 43 .................................................................. trailer (3 axle) (8 ton) for motor boat Model 53 (800 HP)
(3 Achsig) Anhänger offen (o) mit Nutzlast 11.000 kg ............................................................ trailer (3 axle) cargo, civilian type, open (11 ton)
(3 Achsig) Anhänger mit 30-t Kran .......................................................................................... trailer (3 axle) for 30-ton collapsible crane
(3 Achsig) Anhänger schwimmfähig mit Nutzlast von 10 t ..................................................... trailer (3 axle) amphibious (10 ton)
(3 Achsig) Anhänger schwimmfähig mit Nutzlast von 20 t ..................................................... trailer (3 axle) amphibious (20 ton)
(3 Achsig) Anhänger für die Fernrakete A4 (V2) Fabrikat Meiller ......................................... trailer (3 axle) for transporting a V2 rocket (made by Meiller)
(4 Achsig) Anhänger für schwere Lasten Culemeyer ............................................................... trailer (4 axle) for heavy cargo (made by Culemeyer)
(6 Achsig) Anhänger für schwere Lasten Culemeyer bis 60 t .................................................. trailer (6 axle) for heavy cargo (60 ton) (made by Culemeyer)
(6 Achsig) Anhänger für schwere Lasten Gothaer Waggonfabrik bis 60 t ................................ trailer (6 axle) for heavy cargo (60 ton) (made by Gothaer Waggonfabrik)
(Mehrachs) Anhänger für schwere Lasten bis 110 t ................................................................. trailer (multi-axle) for heavy cargo (110 ton)
(Mehrachs) Anhänger für schwere Lasten bis 150 t ................................................................ trailer (multi-axle) for heavy cargo (150 ton)
(Mehrachs) Anhänger mit geschlossenem Aufbau für Zinkdruckrotationspresse .................... trailers (multi-axle) with enclosed body for zincograph rotating printing press
xii
GERMAN HORSE-DRAWN VEHICLES: WAGONS – CARTS — SLEDS
Af = Artilleriefahrzeuge ..................................................................... Artillerie Vehicles
Af 3 Munitionswagen 96 n.A. ....................................................... ammunition limber Type 96 n.A.
Af ? Munitionshinterwagen 96 n.A. .............................................. ammunition rear limber Tpye 96 n.A.
Af 4 Feldhaubitzen-Munitionswagen ............................................ field howitzer ammunition wagon 98
Af 5 schwerer Munitionswagen 02 ................................................ heavy ammunition wagon 02
Af 7 Rohrwagen für 10cm K17 ...................................................... barrel wagon – 10cm Gun (K17)
Af 8 Rohrwagen für 15cm K16 ...................................................... barrel wagon – 15cm Gun (K16)
Af 12 Boebachtungswagen .............................................................. artillery observation wagon
Af 14 Munitionswagen .................................................................... ammunition wagon
Af 19 Rohrwagen für 10cm K18 oder sFH 18 ................................ barrel wagon – 10cm Gun or 15cm sFH
Af ? Feldhaubitzprotze .................................................................. limber for field howitzer
Af ? Munitionshunterwagen 98 ..................................................... ammunition rear limber Tpye 98
Af ? Munitionswagen 38 für 7,5cm Feldkanone 38 ...................... ammunition limber for 7,5cm field gun
Af ? Feldkanonenprotze für 7,5cm Feldkanone 38 ....................... limber for 7,5cm field gun 38
Af ? leichte Feldhaubitzprotze 98E ............................................... limber for light field howitzer 98E
Af ? leichte Feldhaubitzprotze 18 ................................................. limber for light field howitzer 18
Af ? leichte Feldhaubitzprotze 18/40 ............................................ limber for light field howitzer 18/40
Af ? schwerer Feldhaubitzen-Munitionswagen ............................. heavy field howitzer ammunition wagon
xiii
GERMAN HORSE-DRAWN VEHICLES: WAGONS – CARTS — SLEDS
If = Infanteriefahrzeuge ................................................................... Infantry Vehicles
If 3 Maschinengewehr-Wagen (s) (2 sMG) .................................. heavy machine gun wagon (2 HMG)
If 4 Maschinengewehr-Wagen (1) (2 sMG) ................................. light machine gun wagon (2 HMG)
If 4 Gebirgskarre .......................................................................... mountain cart
If 5 Maschinengewehrwagen (Zwillingssockel) ........................... machine gun wagon (with pedestal for dual MG )
If 6 Gefechtskarre für s Gr.Wfr. /m. Gr.Wfr. ................................ medium & heavy mortar wagon
If 7 Maschinengewehrwagen (1 sMG) ......................................... machine gun wagon (1 HMG)
If 7 /24 Maschinengewehrwagen (MG7/24 Schwarzlose) ................. machine gun wagon (for HMG 7/24 Scharzloser)
If 8 Tornister-Funktrupp-Wagen ................................................... pack radio wagon
If 9 Gefechtskarre ......................................................................... combat cart
If 9 /1 Gefechtskarre für 8cm Granatwerfer ..................................... combat cart for 8cm mortar
If 9 /1 Munitionskarre für 8cm Granatwerfer ................................... ammunition cart for 8cm mortar
If 12 Beobachtungswagen .............................................................. observation wagon
If 12 /1 leichte Infantriegeschützprotze ............................................. limber for light infantry gun
If 14 Munitionswagen .................................................................... ammunition wagon
If 15 Beobachtungswagen .............................................................. observation wagon
If ? Gebirgskarre für 3,7cm Pak ................................................... mountain cart for 3,7cm antitank gun
If ? Granatwerferkarre mit Rahmen M.24/25 ............................... mortar cart with frames
xiv
GERMAN ARMY RANKS AND STELLENGRUPPEN (BILLET GROUPS)
Generals
This is only a simplified account of the German military personnel Billet Group “A”
structure and hierarchy. Readers are warned that, as in all armies, Commander-in-Chief / General Officer in an “A” Group
they were in actual fact more complicated, with important Oberbefehlshaber / General in A-Stelle
differentiations being made between designations of rank, billet, Generalfeldmarschall ........................................... General of the Army (Field Marshal)
Generaloberst ...................................................... General
function, and skill. Billet Group “F”
Commanding General / General Officer in an “F” Group
‘Billet’ indicates an appointment to (staffing of) a position – also Kommandierender General / General in F-Stelle
called a ‘slot’ – like Squad Leader, Platoon Commander, Divisional General ............................................................... Lieutenant General
der Infanterie .................................................... of the Cavalry
Commander, Executive Officer, Supply Sergeant, etc. Confusingly, der Kavallerie ................................................... of the Infantry
in some cases, the billet has the same designation as a rank, such as der Artillerie ..................................................... of the Artillery
Hauptfeldwebel. der ... ................................................................ of the ...
Billet Group “D”
The equivalent Ranks given in English are neither completely World Divisional Commander / General Officer in a “D” Group
Divisionskommandeur / General in D-Stelle
War II British nor American, and is not going to satisfy any specialist. Generalleutnant ................................................... Major General
(However a specialist would probably not be reading this anyway). Generalstabsartz ............................................... Major General (Medical Corps)
Nearly all German officer ranks correspond to US Army ranks, Generalstabs-… ................................................ Major General ( … )
although their terminology differs, a Generalmajor being the Billet Group “I”
Infantry, Artillery, or Brigade Commander / General Officer in an “I” Group
equivalent of a brigadier general. Modern US Army rank equivalents Infanterie-, Artillerie-, Brigadekommandeur / Offizier in I-Stelle
have some differences. There is one more enlisted rank (Command Generalmajor ...................................................... Brigadier General
Sergeant Major), and one more Warrant Officer rank (Warrant Officer Generalarzt ....................................................... Brigadier General (Medical Corps)
3rd Class). US Army Warrant Officers are counted as officers, not General- … ...................................................... Brigadier General ( … )
enlisted men. In the German WWII Army, all ranks below 2nd Officers
Billet Group “R”
Lieutenant were enlisted men. Regimental Commander / Officer in an “R” Group
Regimentskommandeur / Offizier in R-Stelle
The German Army divided officers billets into eight groups, Oberst ................................................................. Colonel
depending on the function to be carried out. German wartime officer Oberstarzt ......................................................... Colonel (Medical Corps)
Oberst- … ........................................................ Colonel ( … )
ranks were permanent, which often made it impossible for German Billet Group “B”
officers to be promoted to the higher rank which their wartime billet Battalion Commander / Officer in a “B” Group
would actually have warranted. For example, although a Captain Abteilungs- bzw. Bataillonskommandeur / Offizier in B-Stelle
normally staffed the billet of Company Commander, this was not Oberstleutnant ..................................................... Lieutenant Colonel
always a rule. If there were not enough Captains then a senior member Oberfeldarzt ..................................................... Lieutenant Colonel (Medical Corps)
Oberfeld- … ..................................................... Lieutenant Colonel ( … )
of a lower rank was assigned to that billet. Conversely, if there were Major .................................................................. Major
too many of a higher rank than one or more might be assigned a Oberstabsarzt .................................................... Major (Medical Corps)
lower ranking billet. Many Divisions were commanded by a Brigadier Oberstabs- … ................................................... Major ( … )
General - and even an occasional Colonel - instead of a Major Billet Group “K”
Battery, Squadron, or Company Commander / Officer in a “K” Group
General. Conversely, if a billet was particularly critical, a higher- Batterie-, Schwadron- bzw. Kompanieführer / Offizier in K-Stelle
ranking person might be assigned to that billet than would normally Hauptmann .......................................................... Captain
be the case. Skill was preferred to rank. Promotion was achieved by Rittmeister ....................................................... Captain (Cavalry Corps)
serving time. The function or billet filled as such was not a ground Stabsarzt ........................................................... Captain (Medical Corps)
for promotion. Stabsveterinär ................................................... Captain (Veterinary Corps)
Stabsmusikmeister ............................................ Captain (Band)
Stabs- … .......................................................... Captain ( … )
The enlisted men were divided into three billet groups: Senior Billet Group “Z”
Sergeants (Unteroffiziere mit Portepee) (“O” Group), Junior Platoon Leader / Officer in a “Z” Group
Sergeants (Unteroffiziere ohne Portepee) (“G” Group), and Other Zugführer / Offizier in Z-Stelle
Oberleutnant ....................................................... First Lieutenant
Ranks (Mannschaften) (“M” Group). Oberazt ............................................................ First Lieutenant (Medical Corps)
Obermusikmeister ............................................ First Lieutenant (Band)
Enlisted members of the German Army had an ‘Occupation’ Oberzahlmeister ............................................... First Lieutenant (Paymaster Corps)
(Laufbahn), i.e. a career or field of specialty, like Infantry, Supply, Ober- … ........................................................... First Lieutenant ( … )
Finance and so on. The occupation might be incorporated into the Leutnant .............................................................. Second Lieutenant
Asisstenzarzt .................................................... Second Lieutenant (Medical Corps)
rank designation, such as Beschlagschmiedobergefreiter, a farrier Musikmeister ................................................... Second Lieutenant (Band)
(horseshoe smith) corporal; or even be used instead of the rank Assistenzzahlmesiter ........................................ Second Lieutenant (Paymaster Corps)
designations, such as Beschlagmeister, (‘Farrier Master’), who was Assistenz- … .................................................... Second Lieutenant ( … )
an expert farrier sergeant. Enlisted Men
Billet Group “O”
Senior Non-Commissioned Officer in an “O” Group
The highest combat leader position held by an enlisted man was that Oberfeldwebel (Unteroffiziere mit Portepee)
of platoon leader. However, this usually applied only to the third and Stabsfeldwebel .................................................... Warrant Officer First Class
fourth platoons. All other combat command positions were held by Obermeister ...................................................... Warrant Officer 1st Class of a Technical Establishment
officers. Sergeants and Warrant Officers were in charge of logistics Hauptfeldwebel ................................................... Warrrant Officer 2nd Class
Hauptwachtmeister ........................................... Warrant Officer 2nd Class (Cavalry, Artillery, AA, etc.)
and admin-istration, freeing the officers for their primary function of Oberfeldwebel ..................................................... Sergeant Major
leading men into combat. It was not unusual for senior enlisted men Oberwachtmeister ............................................. Sergeant Major (Cavalry, Artillery, AA, etc.)
to become involved in combat when the need arose, although the Musikleiter ....................................................... Sergeant Major (Band)
German Army considered it a waste of skilled manpower to use etc. ................................................................... etc.
Feldwebel ........................................................... First Sergeant
these highly trained and experienced men for this purpose. Wachtmeister .................................................... First Sergeant (Cavalry, Artillery, AA, etc.)
Beschlagmeister ............................................... Farrier First Sergeant
German Tables of Organization (KStN – Kriegsstärke- Feuerwerker ..................................................... Ordnance First Sergeant
nachweisungen) had many notes indicating which billets and Brieftaubenmeister ........................................... Pigeon Postmaster
etc. ................................................................... etc.
specialist slots were to be filled with what ranks and specialists, Billet Group “G”
listing which billets had priority over others, which could alternatively Non-Commissioned Officer in a “G” Group
be filled by a person with specialized knowledge or skill, and which Gruppenführer (Unteroffiziere ohne Portepee)
billets should by preference be filled with regular army personnel. Unterfeldwebel ................................................... Staff Sergeant
Unterwachtmeister ............................................ Staff Sergeant (Cavalry, Artillery, AA, etc.)
etc. ................................................................... etc.
Although it was expected to have rank and billet corresponding to Unteroffizier ....................................................... Sergeant
each other, this was far from the case. Specialist personnel was rare Santitätsunteroffizier ......................................... Sergeant (Medical Corps)
and many units were raised in a hurry, not having enough time to etc. ................................................................... etc.
acquire all its correct personnel. And once a units entered combat, Obergefreiter ....................................................... Corporal
Santitätsobergefreiter ........................................ Corporal (Medical Corps
the chances of acquiring the exact, highly-skilled soldier for the etc. ................................................................... etc.
correct position often became merely a matter of luck. Billet Group “M”
Other Rank in an “M” Group
The German Wehrmacht also had a unique category of personnel Mannschaft
within its ranks, namely the Wehrmachtbeamten, which can be Gefreiter ............................................................. Private First Class
Oberschütze ........................................................ Private 2
loosely translated as Armed Forces Civil Servants or as Government Oberreiter ......................................................... Trooper First Class
Service Officials. They were found in administrative, legal, and etc. ................................................................... etc.
technical service positions. They were civilians performing functions Schütze ............................................................... Private 1 (infantryman)
within the Armed Forces. Although they were not classified as Grenadier ......................................................... Private (alternate designation for infantryman)
Jäger ................................................................. Private (Mountain or Light Infantry)
soldiers, they wore uniforms identical with those of the Service Pionier ............................................................. Engineer / Pioneer (Engineers)
branch they were serving with, albeit with different insignia. Their Fahrer ............................................................... Driver (usually of a horse-drawn vehicle)
duties, at least at field and company level, could lead to armed Kraftfahrer ........................................................ Driver (motor vehicle)
encounters with enemy forces, and they were all armed with pistols. Beschlagschmiedschütze ................................... Farrier (horse smith)
Spielman .......................................................... Bandsman / Bugler
etc. ................................................................... etc.
xv
GERMAN MILITARY PERSONNEL JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Abteilungsarzt Battalion Physician Melder Messenger / Runner
Abteilungskommandeur Battalion Commander Meldereiter Messenger (horse-mounted)
Abteilungsschreiber Battalion Headquarters Clerk Mitarbeiter Assistant Clerk
Abteilungsveterinär Battalion Veterinary Doctor Motorschlosser Motor Mechanic
Adjutant Adjutant Munitionskanonier Ammunition Handler
Arzt Physician Munitionsschütze Ammunition Handler
Auswerter Plotter / Evaluator Musiker Bandsman
Autoschlosser Motor Vehicle Mechanic Musikmeister Band Leader
Bataillonsarzt Battalion Physician Nachrichtenmechaniker Signals Technician
Bataillonskommander Battalion Commander Nachrichtenoffizier Signal Officer
Bataillonsveterinär Battalion Veterinary Doctor Nachrichtenunteroffizier Signal NCO
Batterieführer Battery Commander Offizier Officer
Batterieoffizier Firing Battery Commander Ordnanzoffizier Aid (-de-Camp) (officer)
Batterieschreiber Battery Headquarters Clerk Ordonnanz Orderly (enlisted)
Beamte Armed Forces Civil Servant / Government Service Official / Panzerbüchsenschütze Antitank Rifleman
Civilian Employee in Military Service Panzerelektromechaniker Armored Vehicle Electrician
Beobachter Observer Panzerelektroschweisser Armored Vehicle Arc Welder
Beobachtungsoffizier Observation Officer Panzerführer Armored Vehicle Commander
Beschlagschmied Farrier / Horseshoe Smith Panzerfunkwart Armored Vehicle Radio Repairman
Betreuungsoffizier Entertainment Officer Panzergetriebenschlosser Armored Vehicle Drive Train Mechanic
Bootsmann Boat Operator Panzerjägerführer Antitank Vehicle Commander
Chef des Stabes Chief of Staff Panzermotorenschlosser Armored Vehicle Motor Mechanic
Divisionionsarzt Division Physician Panzerschlosser Armored Vehicle Mechanic
Divisonskommandeur Division Commander Panzerschützen Infantryman in an Armored Vehicle
Dolmetscher Interpreter Panzerwart Armored Vehicle Mechanic
Dreher Lathe Operator Peiler Direction Finder
Drucker Printer Pferdeführer Horse Leader. Driver on foot of a horse-drawn wagon
Elektriker Electrician Pferdehalter Horse Holder (Groom)
Elektromechaniker Electro Mechanic Pferdewärter Groom (Horse Holder)
Entfernungsmesser Rangefinder / Distance Measurer Pionier Pioneer / Engineer / Sapper
Erkunder Scout Planoffizier Triangulation Officer
Erkundungsoffizier Observation Officer Postfachkraft Postal Worker
Facharbeiter Specialist Prüfer Accounts Controller
Fahnenschmied Farrier NCO Quartiermeister Quartermaster
Fahrer Driver Rechner Calculator
Fahrer vom Bock Wagoner. Rechnungsführer Accountant
(Driver of a horse-drawn vehicle sitting on the driver’s box) Regimentsadjutant Regiment Adjutant
Fahrer vom Sattel Horse Team Leaders. Regimentsarzt Regiment Physician
(Drivers of a horse-drawn vehicle sitting on the horses) Regimentskommandeur Regiment Commander
Feinmechaniker Optics Technician Regimentskraftfahroffizier Regiment Motor Officer
Feldfunksprecher Field Radio Operator Regimentsschreiber Regiment Headquarters Clerk
Feldgendarm Military Policeman Regmentsveterinär Regiment Veterinary Doctor
Feldkoch Cook Richter Judge
Feldkochunteroffizier Cook NCO Richtkreisunteroffizier Gun Layer NCO / Gun Director NCO
Feldwebel Sergeant Richtmeister Master Fitter
Fernsprecher Telephonist Richtschütze Gunner
Feuerwerker Ordnance NCO Sachbearbeiter Clerk
Flakwaffenwart Antiaircraft Weapon Armorer Sanitätsoffizier Medical Officer
Flugmeldeauswerter Air Observation Evaluator Sanitätsunteroffizier Medical NCO
Flugmelder Air Observer Sattelpferd Near Horse
Führer Leader Sattler Saddler / Harness Maker
Führer der Gefechtsfahrzeuge Leader of the Company/Battery Vehicles Scherenfernrohrunteroffizier Scissors Telescope NCO
Funker Radio Operator Schirrmeister Foreman / Harness Keeper / Storekeeper NCO /
Funkmeister Senior Radio Operator Maintenance Technical Sergeant
Funkwart Radio Repairman Schleifer Polisher
Futtermeister Fodder NCO Schlosser Mechanic
Gaschützunteroffizier Chemical Warfare NCO Schmied Smith
Gefechtsschreiber Headquarters Clerk Schneider Tailor
Gerätverwalter Equipment Administrator Schreiber Clerk
Gerätwart Equipment Repairman Schumacher / Schuster Shoemaker / Cobbler
Geschützbedienung Gun Crew Schwadronführer Company Commander (cavalry arm)
Geschützführer Gun Layer / Gun Captain / Gun Commander Schwadrontruppführer Company Headquarters Section Leader (cavalry arm)
Getreibeschlosser Drive Train Mechanic Schweisser Welder
Gruppenführer Section Leader Spähtruppführer Scout Section Leader
Handwerker Craftsman Staffelführer Detachment Leader
Haptfeldwebel Senior Company NCO / Company First Sergeant Stellmacher Cartwright / Wheelwright
Hauptwachmeister Senior Battery NCO / Battery First Sergeant Stellungsunteroffizier Gun Position NCO
Hilfsbeobachter Assistant Observer Steuermann Helmsman (driver of a boat)
Hilfsprüfer Assistant Controller Tankwart Fuel Handler
Hiwi (Hilfswilliger) Foreign Volunteer for Military Service Tischler Joiner / Cabinet Maker
Holzarbeiter Wood Worker Trossführer Trains Leader
Intendant Commissary Officer Truppenarzt Troop Doctor
Kanonier Gunner Truppführer Team Leader
Kartenzeichner Cartographer Unteroffizier NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer)
Kettenkraftradfahrer Kettenkrad Driver Urkundsbeamter Document Clerk
Klempner Plumber Verbindungsoffizier Liaison Officer
Koch Cook Vermessungsdienst Measuring Service
Kommandant Commandant Verpflegungsmann Rations Handler
Kommandeur Commander Verpflegungsunteroffizier Rations NCO
Kompanieführer Company Commander Veterinäroffizier Veterinary Officer
Kompanietrossführer Company Trains Leader Vorgeschobener Beobachter Forward Observer
Kompanietruppführer Company Headquarters Section Leader Vorhandwerker Leading Craftsman
Kradmelder Motorcycle Messenger Vorreiter Outrider. Escort on horse-back of a horse-drawn vehicle.
Kraftfahrzeugelektriker Motor Vehicle Electrician Vorwarner Advance Warning Man
Kraftfahrzeugmotorenschlosser Motor Vehicle Motor Mechanic Waffenmeister Armorer
Kraftfahrzeugschlosser Motor Vehicle Mechanic Waffenmeistergehilfe Assistant Armorer
Kraftwagenbeifahrer Motor Vehicle Codriver Waffenmeisterunteroffizier Master Armorer NCO
Kraftwagenfahrer Motor Vehicle Driver Waffenunteroffizier Armorer NCO
Krankenträger Stretcher Bearer Wagenbegleiter Wagon Escort. Escort of a horse-drawn vehicle on foot
Ladeschütze Loader Wagenführer Leader of the vehicles in the trains
Laufwerkschlosser Running Gear Mechanic Werferführer Launcher or Mortar Gunner
Leiter Chief Leader Werkmeister Foreman / Chief Technician
Lichtpauser Photographer Zahlmeister Paymaster / Finance Officer
Maler Painter Zeichner Draftsman
Mann (Enlisted) Man Zimmermann Carpenter
Mannschaft Privat / Other Rank / (Enlisted) Man Zugführer Platoon Leader
Maschinengewehrschütze Machine Gunner Zugtruppführer Platoon Headquarters Section Leader
Meldefahrer Motor Vehicle Messenger
Meldefahrer Messenger (motor vehicle)
xvi