I wonder if a combination of a sandy soil and a low water table is the reason the finds a few inches deep are in such good condition. Also, the freezing of the soil would play a part. I have read that the Russians just piled the G, many times with their Kar 98s, Lugers and P-38s still on the bodies. Due to the nature of the finds, the bones are long gone. Can it be discerned if a site may be a mass surrender or just battle field deaths (perhaps 95%) How about rifle bolts? May show that it was surrender where then could have removed the bolts and tossed them.

I have read about soldiers tossing their iron Thanks crosses and such before they surrender. Any ideas?