Soviet Forces

Red Flag Over Reichstag (alternate shot)

Yevgeni Khaldei

April 30th 1945 This flag was made from tablecloths the night by Yevgeni Khaldei and his uncle before this picture was taken. The reason for targeting the Reichstag is unclear, since it served no political, strategic or military purpose at all. Perhaps this was for symbolism. It indeed had the symbolic effect for the Soviets since this staged photo was inspired by the Rosenthal photo taken at Iwo Jima. The photo is normally thought of as doctored, and it is. But this shot is a much clearer shot and taken from a different angle than the more famous photo. here you can see the two wristwatches that were so controversial due to the thievery \" conduct unbecoming of an officer\". Also interesting to note: This phot was taken two days before the last nazi was finally removed from the building.