Now we have the orders for this Wound badge. It's looking more and more like the collection we got in was a big grouping for one German soldier. The orders for the Wound Badge in Black are for Corporal Josef Wenger, orders dated 4 March 1945. They appear to be signed by the Commander of FlakRegiment 46, a Major. This is a German 3rd Class Wound Badge from World War II. The wound badge was a military decoration first instituted by Kaiser Wilhelm II, German Emperor on 3 March 1918. It was awarded to wounded or frostbitten soldiers of the Imperial German Army during World War I. During World War II soldiers from the Wehrmacht, the SS and the auxiliary service organizations that supported them were eligible for award of the Wound Badge. After March, 1943 the Wound Badge was awarded to civilians wounded during Allied bombings. Ultimately it became the most common military decoration of Germany, yet it was one of the most highly prized awards. This was because it was earned as a mark of honor for all who risked their lives for the Fatherland and were wounded or maimed. The Wound Badge was awarded in three classes. The black, or 3rd class, was awarded to those who had been wounded once or twice by hostile action, or frostbitten in the line of duty. The silver, or 2nd class, was awarded for being wounded three to four times, or suffering loss of a hand, foot or eye, facial disfigurement or brain damage due to hostile action. The gold, or 1st class, was awarded for five or more times wounded, total blindness, "loss of manhood", or severe brain damage due to hostile action. All versions of the Wound Badge were worn on the lower left breast of the uniform. The badge was worn below all other awards on the left. It is believed that more than 5 million were awarded during World War II. The majority of the black matte paint has worn of this Wound badge. It remains mostly in the recessed areas and around the edges on the front. The back side is still mostly black. The medal still retains it's oval appearance, having no damage or imperfections. Another German artifact from World War II, this will make a great addition to your German collection.

Item # AA755

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