German Forces

Young love.

Unknown (professional) private author.

Formal studio portrait of SS Unterscharfuhrer of the 5th SS Division, "Wiking" and his sweetheart, date unknown. Was a division composed to accommodate non-German, "Germanic" volunteers from a number of countries who wished to combat Bolshevism. As a generalization, the rank and file were "Germanic" volunteers, as were a proportion of NCOs, while senior NCOs and officers (at least in the early stages) were "Reich Germans" (promises to allow west European volunteers to be commanded by officers of their own nationality were generally ignored for what were perceived as practical reasons). At this rank, the young man could be either "Reichdeutsch" or foreign volunteer. The soldier is wearing the Iron Cross, Second Class and the Eastern Front Medal ("Frozen Meat Medal") on a medal bar, as well as the Infantry Assault Badge. Wear of the medals on a medal bar in this way was most unusual except on formal occasions, suggesting that this photo was taken in connection with a formal event - very probably the marriage of the couple under "SS Rite". Best regards, JR.