Germany, Heer. A Wehrpaß To Infantry Nco Hermann Kietz, Kia In The East

The Wehrpaß is of the second type, dated to Naumburg an der Saale (eastern Germany) on September 14, 1937. Measuring 106x147mm, near extremely fine condition with light scuffing, and minimal creasing and warping.

Footnote: Hermann Oskar Kietz was born on April 3, 1918 in Schafstädt (eastern Germany). He volunteered for service in the RAD (National Labour Service) and was mustered on August 30, 1937. After a successful term, he ended his labour service on October 25, 1938 in the rank of supernumerary Truppführer (troop leader). Afterwards, Kietz joined the army on November 8, 1938 and was placed in Infantry Regiment 53. This was the only unit he ever served in, not counting a short three week deployment to Kraftfahr-Kompanie (driver company) 3/14 in mid 1943. Kietz was a trained truck driver. After the beginning of the war, he saw action in the Polish campaign. He was then promoted to Oberschütze on November 1, 1939, and to Gefreiter (Lance Corporal) on December 1 of the same year. During this time, Kietz was stationed on Germany’s western border. In May of 1940, he took part in the attack on France via Belgium. Kietz was wounded on May 22, taking grenade splinters to both arms. He stayed in hospital between then and July 29. Four days before his release from hospital, he was awarded the Wound Badge in Black. Kietz was promoted to Obergefreiter (Corporal) on November 1, 1940. His unit was later stationed in the east. Kietz took part in the attack on Russia from the very first day. On August 4, 1942 he was awarded the Eastern Front Medal. Kietz was promoted one last time on October 1, 1943, to Unteroffizier (NCO). He was killed in action on November 10, 1943 with no information given about the circumstances of his death.