Unit Appearance Requirement

By pursuing this hobby you are choosing to step back into another time, Europe at war in the early 1940's. Immersing yourself allows you to gain special insight into the concerns and issues faced by another person, a foreign Soldier, a German citizen, and another human being that is just not possible any other way. The Soldat was subject to multiple intrusions into his personal life, following strict rules and army regulations. In order to maintain as authentic an impression as is reasonably possible, all members are asked to follow these rules. We will, as a unit, make every attempt to maintain at all times a high degree of historical accuracy and authenticity.

A German Haircut

Your hair is a major part of your appearance and having a correct haircut can really help create a good impression. Soldiers in uniform were restricted to what they were permitted to do with their hair. It was to be kept short, the standard being that it would be kept off the collar and ears. The extremely short hairstyles in today's modern military were rarely seen.

In this unit an acceptable haircut is required. Try to make it look as authentic as possible, short on the sides and back becoming progressively longer towards the top with no sideburns. Fortunately many similar modern haircuts are acceptable, and look especially good when slicked back with a can of pomade, a popular way to style your hair in Germany at the time as well as the other western nations.

When you go to your barber ask him to fade or taper your hair appropriately with electric clippers. Bring a copy of a period photo to show him and a carefully worded explanation of why you would like it. You can obtain a great Barbers Guide to Haircuts on the Erste Zug web site here: Guide to Haircuts

The German Mustache

In the German Army mustaches were usually not permitted and beards were forbidden, except for mountain troops or for medical reasons that prevented the man from shaving. In general all members should be clean shaven at all times, even after a day of combat the Soldat would usually shave. In some events an unshaven and "scruffy" look may be permitted. This information will be provided in the details for the event.

Eyeglasses

Not commonly seen in period photos of combat units, your replica glasses should be round wire frames or rimless glasses. Contact lenses may also be worn.

Watches

Wristwatches began to be common by 1940. During the First World War soldiers would more likely have had a pocket watch. You can wear an original or replica watch during events, but it should be analog with the band made of leather. The watch would have a simple round or square face with only the basic numerals. Watch features such as Day and Date did not yet commonly exist in watches. Any other watch should not be worn.

Rings

According to military regulations, jewelry should not be worn. If married you are allowed to wear a plain gold band ring on the right hand, not the left as you would normally do in American tradition.

Piercings/Tattoos

Earrings and visible body jewelry should not be worn during events. Earrings are prohibited by regulation while in uniform and any other piercing was unheard of in the 1940's.

Tattoos should be covered at all times. Though gaining in popularity throughout the century, any tattoos the soldier may have had would have remained covered, modest in size and relatively crude in design.

Awards and Rank

Only unit approved and awarded decorations and rank badges can worn on your uniform.

A German Name

As important as good looking impression is a great name. Everyone should have a period sounding name to go along with their character. As you fill out your Soldbuch this becomes especially important as you will determine were you are from, your family names, etc.

Generally any German sounding name is appropriate, even many names of foreign origin are acceptable. A large number of American names have common European and German roots. Some of the men have kept there own names finding them already acceptable. As we portray the average Heer Soldat, names of Nobility are not allowed and there are a few names that are never allowed for obvious reasons. Feel free to ask questions if you have any and just about any reasonable name you like we will like too.