Germany, Luftwaffe. A Rare Fallschirm-Sturmgeschütz-Brigade 12 Identification Tag

(Luftwaffe Erkennungsmarke für Mannschaften der Fallschirm-Sturmgeschütz-Brigade 12). Constructed of silvered zink, perforated with three eyelets for suspension, the obverse bearing a double-stamped inscription of “1./FSCH. STU. GESCH. BRIG. 12”, identity number of “123”, and blood type of “B”, measuring 70 mm (w) x 50 mm (h), demonstrating moderate oxidation and loss of finish throughout, a rare identification tag issued to personnel who participated in combat in Normandy in very fine condition.

Footnote: Fallschirm-Sturmgeschütz-Brigade 12 (officially designated with Roman numerals XII) was formed in June 1944 from personnel of Fallschirm-Sturmgeschütz Brigade 1 and 2, and was equipped with 31 guns. Under the command of Hauptmann Günter Gersteuer, it moved into the area south of St. Lo following the D-Day landings, suffering heavy casualties in combat with Allied forces, with its operation strength reduced to eleven guns on 27 June, and to just ten by 29 July. After retreating through France, the unit was refitted and deployed to the Netherlands to support 7. Fallschirm-Jäger-Division through 1945.