Were German soldiers required to wear their medals in combat during WWII, or was it a personal choice? German soldiers in World War II were not officially required to wear their medals in combat. However, the practice often depended on the context and the individual soldier’s preference. Here are some key points to consider:
Regulations and Practicality:
Official German military regulations generally prioritized functionality and uniformity in combat attire. Medals and decorations, especially those in the form of ribbon bars or large medals, could be cumbersome or potentially reflective, which might pose a risk in combat situations.
Soldiers often wore ribbon bars or simplified versions of medals on their uniforms during combat instead of the full-sized medals. For example, the ribbon for the Iron Cross could be threaded through the second buttonhole of the tunic, which was common practice.
Personal Choice and Pride:
Some soldiers chose to wear their awards, especially decorations like the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross, which carried significant prestige and morale-boosting value among their peers.
In non-combat or rear-area situations, soldiers were more likely to display their full decorations, as this was a way to show rank, achievements, and status.
Cultural and Propaganda Factors:
German military culture placed a high value on medals and awards as symbols of honor and valor. They were also a key part of Nazi propaganda, highlighting the “heroism” of soldiers.
In combat zones, practicality often outweighed symbolic considerations. Soldiers might carry medals in their personal belongings rather than wearing them during battle.
In summary, while there was no strict requirement for German soldiers to wear their medals in combat, simplified forms like ribbon bars were commonly used, and the decision often reflected a mix of personal preference, practicality, and the specific situation.
