Getting there

[greimers]

Sorry for using this thread but I cant find where I should post my next two intended points. Keeping it short , I would like to post some photos of German Veterans in retirement. I would also like to share an aspect of my German Grandfather's POW(French captivity) experience

[Friedrich-Berthold]

The veterans organization of the Waffen SS in the FRG was the HIAG, founded in the early 1950s. There existed a very large veterans organization in West Germany, the Verband deutscher Soldaten e.V. as well as innumerable organizations connected with specific units. These are listed in the Damerau, Deutscher Soldaten Kalender (see here) which was published from the early 1950s until the beginning of the last decade. The HIAG was quite strong in the 1950s and politically suspect to many, which is a topic for another inquiry. HIAG means Hilfgemeischaft auf Gegenseitigkeit of former Waffen SS soldiers. I enclose an image from 1954 at the time of the release of Panzer Meyer with his chums, including Hausser. Striking in these images from a decade after the war is how well fed they all look.

[greimers]

Whether supported by HIAG or not these men maintained their discipline thoughout their lives. In Australia, even though condemmed by their own and by their adopted country as criminals, again and again I witnessed them supporting widows, comrades or others in need. Mehr Sein Als Scheinen.

[Pascal BERNHARD]

[greimers]

Another nice ensemble, excellent cap and beautiful nickel buckle.Attachment 390759Attachment 390758Attachment 390756Attachment 390757Attachment 390755Attachment 390754

[Friedrich-Berthold]

well done, bravo. So the Stiles pieces all went to our members here. That is good, since shows the good taste and wisdom that reigns here versus elsewhere.

[greimers]

Thanks F-B, the Deutschland tunic is beautiful and in remarkable condition.

Regards, Grant.

[Friedrich-Berthold]

Thanks F-B, the Deutschland tunic is beautiful and in remarkable condition.

Regards, Grant.

It certainly is and your collection is growing nicely. Well done.

[Larry C]

My compliments to a great thread and the collections posted. A uniform unlike an edged weapon should not lay prostrate in display so the photos in post #45 are now without a crooked neck view! Great uniform Greimers!! Larry

[greimers]

Many thanks Larry!!