are SVT Block pater ble cover The clip on te Block pattern cover are {found on later tached by sewing and not by riveting as tara Magazine ‘Autunn side ofthe Block cover Miltaria Magazine Lo tion was the fist issue helmet cover. These examples were sewn direty into the cover. This procedure was ime consuming ang ‘was replaced in 1937 with the rivet. Virtualy ll patterns used on clothing could be seen on helmet con- cers. The two final SS patterns, Dot and Leibermuster, were not utilize in the production of covers. These pattems were intended to replace the preexisten types, but did not progress far enough to doo. Helmet covers produced late in the war were Oak Leaf. Ths corresponded with that pattem being the final printed example for zeltbahns. The helmet cover displayed one significant modification during the war In the fill of 1941 Schick noted the importance of attaching local foliage to camouflage garments such as the helmet cover.” The ben ofsuch additions were obvious. Covers produced in mi-1942and there. after had six loops which enabled troops to add leaves and twigs, thereby enhancing the camouflage. No other changes were applied to the cover. Their subsequent appearance remained consistent through the end of ts the war. Notes 1.}.G. Otto Schick, An Reichsfilhrer-SS, Betr.: Abschluss der Arbeiten fir die Tarnausristung, Miinchen, den 1 November 1938. 2. Ludwig Baer, The History of the German Steel Helmet, I 3, Der Reichsfilhrer$S, An den C! Wiesbaden, 23 November 1938. 4. Der Chef des $S-Hauptamtes, SS-Zentralkanzlei, SS-Obergruppentilrer Heissmeyer, Betr.: Tarnungsausristung, Berlin, den 16 Februar 1939 5. Der Reichsfilhrer-SS Persinlicher Stab, Tb. Nr. AR/1038/6, Wa/L Der Stabsfiihrer des Perséinl. Stabes RFSS., An den Chef des SS Hauptamtes, Betr.: Tamungsausriistung, Berlin, den @) Februar 1939, 6. SS-Obergruppenfiihrer Pohl, Der Chef des V.u.W.-Hauptamtes, An ReichsfiihrerSS, Betr.: Tarnjacken, Tarnschirme und Trippelwagen. Bertin, 19 Juni 1940. 7. JG. Otto Schick, Tarsachverstindiger der Reichsfihrung-S, Uber den wehrtechnischen und wehrwissenschaftlichen Ausbau des Tarngebietes, Miinchen, September 1941 f des SS-Hauptamt, AbschReverse side autumn colors Ths final ype smock retained the 142 pl gtr Thi HAT example sprinted Oa aA she xa Paser Som NS rir pockets were be common red gree HTP org previous black and wbitephoograp. P Verbraggen ‘bows For reasons ubich are unclear, patiers na 3! tends to bave dramatic contrasts not ordinary found in aber Plane Tree prints. Te lower sleeves ila ‘caraondinary color diferences se addtional example in chaper 10) Toe autumn colors bere press everal entaninn 4INTRODUCTION The first SSsmock tobe analyzed by the US. Quartermaster Corps was bis Model 10 Paim example achievements were, in their own respect, as remarkable asthe first. Many decades later, the Swiss army was still wearing a derivative of his final pattem. The concept of infrared detection is now common technology ‘The legacy of German achievements continues even today The effectiveness of the SS pattems will always be a subjective is- sue. Allied reports were generally in praise of it. Large numbers of both SS and army officers interrogated after the war all agreed that careful ‘camouflage ofthe individual soldier was extremely important. One 1945 US intelligence repo states, “Camouflage of the individual was more ‘important on the Eastern Front than on the Western Front, since Ameri- can antllery and air bombings reduced the amount and effectiveness of sniping and small arms fire Against the Soviets, troops well trained in amoullage were much more effective than those who were not." The captured German officers also pointed out that the average American soldier was carclessin the area of camouflage thereby causing needless casualties. Opinion was equally divided as to whether one type of mottled ‘camouflage had some advantage over another. Some officers even felt the SS mottle camouflage made them more conspicuous. Others felt a Solid shade was of equal value and encouraged their soldiers to splorch their uniforms with dir ifthey desired to do so, Because no suitable face masks were developed, blackening the face or coloring with brown and {en paints was advisable. Foliage on the helmet was thought to be fective. All agreed that camouflage was only good when a soldier was Stationary. Movement quickly destroyed any camouflage benefit The study of SS camouflage today is hampered by lack of surviving ‘©xamples, missing documents, and scant reference. Garments produced laterinthe warare much more likely tobe located than something manu: factured even in 1942. Retatvely speaking, early garments were few in ‘umber. Additionally, if one considers SS combat records, an added di- US. Army photo depicting materials used in be construction of te Palm smock mension of scarcity arises, For the Waffen-SS, the Russian Front was a hhuman grinding machine. By late 1941, the Das Reich division had last 60 percent ofits fighting strength. In February 1942 Oberstumbannfihrer Kumm reported that only 35 men were left out ofan original compli ‘ment of 2000 in his regiment of "Der Fihre.” By 1943 one-third ofthe Original Waffen-SS divisions had been incinerated in the Russian inferno, ‘The quality ofthe $$ combat troops was consequently ina rapid decline. ‘The average lifespan ofan SS officerat te front was only three months. In ate 1944, Sepp Dietrich, commander ofthe Adolf Hitler division, was ordered to commit his troops to the hopeless Ardennes offensive. A stunned Dietrich quickly pointed out to the High Command that out of all the original members of the Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler, only thirty men were left standing, The SS troops were literally called on to perform super-human feats, Those who tried to stem the advance of the Soviet steamroller simply disappeared in its wake. For obvious reasons there- fore, many fascinating and rare examples of SS camouflage did not sur- Vive the war, but perished along with their owners. When analyzing pho- tographs of such articles, the task is often complicated by filthy uniforms and poor quality prints. In 1945 the SS-Hauptamt ordered the destruc- tion ofall Kriegsberichter (war reporter) photographic negatives. Fortu- nately, many of the original contact sheets survived even though the negatives did not. Those sheets, however, do not reproduce the photo- ‘graph in the quality of negatives. Despite the difficulties inherent with this study, the material contained herein is more than sufcient to ac quaint the reader in most aspects of SS camouflage. It is the authors desire that those using this book as a historical guide and reference will sain valuable insights and appreciate the significance of the German contribution inthis il. an 6Chapter 1 PATTERNS (Tarnmuster) General Perhaps the most remarkable aspect ofthe SS camouflage program were the pattems themselves. Audacious in design and briliant in color, they provided impetus that would change the face of modern warfare. Even in the short span of years available, German camouflage continually evolved No pattems produced atthe beginning of the war were in produc. tion atits end. Everything was experimental. The Waffen-SS had its own research and development sections in the Waffen-SS Quartermaster Of- fice (SS Wirschafts Verwaltungsamt) in Berlin. Obersturmbannfihrer Deterde, Quartermaster ofthe XIIISS Corps, stated that laboratory and field tests were usually conducted simultaneously. Typically, units in- volved would receive experimental items to evaluate their effectiveness under differing situations. Special Quartermaster teams were put into the field to make observations and solicit feedback from the troops. In- formation would then be forwarded to research and development, The pattems illustrated here are listed in ascending order of manu- facture, beginning with the earliest type. The dates are approximate, given the experimental nature of SS camouflage. While this section cov- ersallknown pattems of SS design, the risk of omission exists Its highly probable that there were several patterns of which only a handful were produced, Identifying them through photographic sources is tenuous at best. There will always be potential for new surviving examples to emerge. Such examples, though, would berareindeed. Contained herein isthe true face of SS camouflage — innovative by nature, practical in application, and dramatic in effect. ‘ht SVT Block parm. Characterized by large dark, afte paces Early ‘raining pbotograpts show this pattern in se on belmet covers Shown bere ina side ‘by sideew are bt tun an summer colors Block Pattern (SS-VT)* Date: 1936-1938 Print: manual screening Production: helmet covers, smocks Possibly the inital work of Linnekogel, this patter was frst in ap- pearance on helmet covers during early experimental exercises. Like several other early pattems, it was intended for use on articles of cloth ing —not for general purpose on zetbahns. The film-printed (screened) fabric was dyed in three colors. Overlapping screens produced an addi- tional tone, giving the appearance of four colors. Anthrasol dyes were common for this process ‘The suffx"SSVT is used here 1 dsinguish hse ey pers manuf before 1981 and ‘sued othe SerigungsuppeCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Plane Tree (SS-VT Pattern) Date: 1936-1940 Print: manual screening Production: helmet covers, smocks, zeltbahns ‘Otto Schick's multi-purpose design was used effectively with geo- metric shapes such a tents and was film-screened in three colors with anthrasol dyes. The Plane Tree pattem was the longest surviving design (1944), arly models used by SS-VT personnel tended to have large pat- temed areas and fewer spots, with open expanses of no darker prints. later versions were characterized by a smaller, more spotted appear- ance. Schick’ eariy effin this field were to produce an effective cam- ‘oullage pattern that had a natural flowing image when joined with other sections. In a 1938 dated letter to Himmler he states: “My camouflage form has no repetitions and has the effect of unregulated natural forms, ‘even the regularity atthe edges (triangle) has the appearance of irregu- larity, So when the forms are put together they avoid having the same appearance. My invention inthis area can be used forall geometric shapes as wellas other purposes. Therefore, iis possible to be used for other angles which is not possible with ther inventions. The pattems are the ‘result of many observations in nature.”* Schick produced six separate designs to coincide with the standard six man tent (6-bahnzelt) arrangement. The individual sections were numbered 1 through 6, Numbers printed on the pattern were used t0 ‘match corresponding segments in zelt construction. Schick's design ‘would then efecively allow random mating between zl Early screenings used anthrasol dyes. Later prints combined Jndanthrene withthe process Top rig SS¥T Plane Tree no. 5. The summer colors depicted bere bave scant fating: 18CHAPTER 1: PATTERNS E ee < The prewar Plane Tree pattern was significantly diferently than later models The first change inthe Plane Tree patern after tbe war began.CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Plane Tree (SS-VT Lateral variant) Date: 1938-1940 Print: manual screening Production: helmet covers, smocks This scarce pattern was the first model to incorporate the later spot- ted type appearance. This design replaced the early Block pattern and wwasin essencea more compacted version of that pattem. Three anthrasol Ayes produced the four colors on this fabric. The tones used on this Gesign were essentially the same as on all prewar pattems. There were three basic colors for each side (spring and fal) Spring: Dark green, Leaf green (green tint), Brown ground Fall: Dark brown, Leaf green (brown tint), Brown ground This pattern was intended for clothing use only and, therefore, carried no associated numbers as with other Plane Tree styles. The name was derived from the lateral effect of the print when viewed horizontally Plane Tree (at. variant) helmet cover. This pattern is readily dented by its ral longed and boizontl dare spo. hae Reverse side sbowing autumn browns. A CanaleHAPTER 1; PATTERNS. Palm Date: 1940-1942 Print: machine roller Production: helmet covers, smocks The uniquely conspicuous Palm pattem was one of the fi printed with rollers. By the invasion of Russia this mode! had re widespread distribution. This pattern was made up from five colors us ing both indanthrene and anthrasol dyes. It was designed for clot Left above The mos dra exposed bereCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS, lane Tree (Polyspot variant) ate: 1941 rint: manual screening roduction: helmet covers, smocks This Plane Tree type pattern was likely the ast fully hand screened rwork. Similar in design to the Lateral variant, but in a spot pattern thout lateral sweep in the forms. As with earlier prints, it was Pro- sced using three colors in anthrasol dyes. Lane Tree (plyspt variant) summer color. Courtesy of R Noss. Reverse side ofthe scarce poyspot variant. Note the screening law rinting R. Noss -CHAPTER 1: PATTERNS Plane Tree (Wartime patterns) Date: 1940-1944 Print: screen and machine roller Production: headgear, smocks, zeltbahns, combinations ‘There were several different variations ofthese patterns. As screens were reproduced to increase production by new manufacturers, dispari- ties appeared, There was also an increasing progression toward smaller spor designs. The earlier Plane Tree prints were manually screened. Be- ‘ginning in 1941 machine printing of background patterns commenced. This underlay was quite different from the original. t was the newly in- troduced Oak Leaf pattern, Printed in two tones, it gave the appearance ofthree. The darker Plane Tree design continued to be applied by hand. The combination yielded 2 larger production than screen printing alone. This newly combined procedure, however, did not completely replace the older process. It merely boosted production and both styles continued fabrication until 1944. Right Plane Tree no. 1, late wartime pattern. Ths syle has te Oak Leaf print asa base design When examining the various Plane Tree pattems, there are similarities in the designs betwoen certain numbers. This is due tothe manufacturing process When printed, segment numbers 1 and 2 were on the same screen. For example, the right half of Plane Tree no. 1 ison the same print screen as the right balf of no. 2. Tis also applies in relative fashion with the left sides. Thus Plane Tee patterns were printed 12,34 516. Each combination of numbers having similar pat formations Sante ase ae wn. arly Plane Tree no. 2 summer colors Noe bow ft and rig segment egtber ‘when property alignedCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS efi Tn 3 Th 3 Plan Te mgs pp befor RRR ptf irl als elfen a cota enCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS General view ofthe ma. 5 design. This accurately de Saocleaeret ema 5g Ts carlyRMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS CAMOUFLAGE UNCHAPTER 1: PATTERNSCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Blurred Edge Date: 1941-1944 Print: machine roller ‘Production: all types except paratroop clothing ‘This pattem introduced a very nondescript appearance tothe pre- viously distinctive motif. It combined a unique effect of shadows and foliage. The pattem was constructed of a three tone Oak Leaf underlay and overprinted with a black two tone shadow. ‘Blurred Edge summer side. Tis pater appears di a renner xan ea Tevet ntedpifncln Reverse side of be same pater showing autumn colors andr Vrs cmtiatons of clr eicietingdnyn pasTAPTER 1; PATTERN! Autumn side of tbe previous pater. ‘Blurred Edge color vartation. Summer tones.CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS ‘This comparison vividly illustrates the possibilities in Blurred Edge- Oak Leaf (Type A — Type B) Date: 1941-1945 Print: machine roller Production: all types except paratroop clothing The origin of Oak Leaf was likely its introduction as a background design in Blurred Edge. However, by adding two additional color tones it evolved into a distinctly separate pattem, Because much of the mate- ‘rial printed was destined for use in Blurred Edge and Plane Tree fabrica- tion, articles produced solely inthis pattern were more scarce than their counterparts. Later variations produced the Type B print. This was a ‘crude reproduction of Type A. The unique differences existed ints softer edges and outlined designs. This pattem wasin use by 1943. Unlike other styles, the Oak Leaf was not discontinued with the introduction of the Dot patter. It would continue production through 1945 CHAPTER 1: PATTERNS (Oak Leaf “A” autumn colors. (Oak Leaf A" summer print, This ste common pattern found on late war zeltbabns 7E UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-: design, there are several Oat Leaf {m autumn colors printedCHAPTER 1: PATTERNS Dot Date: 1944-1945 Print: machine roller Production: two piece uniforms, winter clothing, paratroop smocks. Originally designed to replace all other types of SS camouflage. This pattern was introduced early in 1944 with the two piece camouflage uniform. Five different colors were used in both indanthrene and anthrasol dyes* This was the last pattem produced by the SS to see distribution in significant numbers. Right: 1944 Dot pattern on HBT material tb cotton Dierent iw of the Dot pater Dot pater printedCHAPTER 1; PATTERNS. Leibermuster Date: 1945 Print: machine roller Production: two piece uniforms, winter clothing The final pattem produced by Nazi Germany atthe end of the war. Had the conflict been prolonged, both SS and Wehrmacht troops were designated for this pattern, See Leibermuster chapter for further expla nation 1945 Leibermustr.CHAPTER 1: PATTERNS smock. This jacket was reportedly found in a German cellar around 1960. 2 piece s probably genuine, aulbentication i dificult Tbe autborsbave personally examined this article Courtesy of H. MassetCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WARFEN-SS ntified Patterns strated here are several pattems which, because of their sc lack of surviving examples and. photographic evidence makes scrutiny of such patterns quite The continuum of time allows the surfacing of new and previ- known details, Such information may perhaps surface in fut SS pattern m. Close-up view ofa pattern known to exist only on ome smock,CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SSCHAPTER 1: PATTERNSCHAPTER 1: PATTERNS gure C Notes Office ofthe Quartermaster General, US. Army, Comparison of Ger man Clothing, Equipment, and Rations with Those Developed by the US. Quartermaster Comps, 1945, Pg. 73. 2.) G. Otto Schick, An den Reichsfihrer-SS, Bet: Abschluss der Arbeiten fur Tamaustistung., Miinchen, 1 November 1938. t v ' “SS 3. Francis S. Richardson, QMC Consultant, Camouflage Fabrics both Plain and Printed for Military Use by the German SS and German Army, 20 uly 1945, Pg. 25, 4 Ibid, Pg. 21 @Chapter 2 ZELTBAHNS he German term zeltbahn is comparable to the english word Ta In today’s collectibles market, the english ad- aptation commonly refers tothe articles as zeltbahns inthe plu- ral sense. The correct German spelling would be zeltbahnen. This text uses the informal english term, The zeltbahn is additionally known as a sgroundsheet. The camouflage zeltbahn was tested for military effectiveness in December 1936 and January 1937. After inital evaluations were com- pleted, joint application was filed between Schick and the Reichsfihrer- $5 for patent registration. On 17-19 June 1938 further tests were con- ‘ducted by the Reichs Patent Office (Reichspatentamt). The presiding commission was: Patent Tester, Herr Oberregierungsrat Miller. Patent Attomey, Herr Dip. Ing. E. Noll $8-Standartenfihrer Diesterweg. $S-Standartenfihrer Limer. $5-Untersturmfilhrer Paulsen, ‘$S-Hauprsturmfithrer Dr. Barthelmess. 'S-Oberscharfihrer, Assessor Klein, Jurist Also present at the preliminaries were Otto Schick and his assistant Adolf Schmid. It was their postion to act as advisors on all aspects of camouflage and zeltbahn use. Men from the $S-Standarte “Nurnberg” were employed.as field troops fortis evaluation, Various exercises were performed camouflaging both men and vehicles. Zeltbahns were tested. in differing configurations by buttoning sections together in random sequence. The camouflage effectiveness was also tested through chang Jing distances, Schick noted that his camouflage pattems did not create “local” tones on the landscape. The problem of recognizable patterns ‘on the surface was a detriment associated with the Wehrmacht zeltbahn. Schick was convinced that his developments were superior to that of ‘the Wehrmacht and had satisfactorily addressed those deficiencies. On 1 March 1939 Reichsfilhrer-SS Himmler sent a letter to the ‘eichspatentamt that they make no public announcements regarding, SS camouflage The articles specified were N 40 319 XI /72 g (cemou- lage zeltbahn), N 40 3201/72 g (camouflage patterns for zeltbahns), N 40744 XI /72 g (combining camouflaged zeltbahns), N 325 XI /72.g Early design of the camouflage zeltbahn was the work of Schick’ Originally the SS-VT had used zeltbahns produced ina slate grey color. Later, they progressed to include the army camouflage model. Schick developed the Plane Tree pattern especially fr the eltbahn. A primary concern was the camouflage effect when joining segments together. His ‘new pattern successfully created a continuous camouflage design, over coming the difficulties involved with geometric shapes and regulates. By introducing a blocking patter, or consolidation of design along the cedigesatspecifcied intervals, the effect produced fluid pattern between. individual sections when joined, Schick's design would be the standard camouflage patter for allzetbahns. Other existent pattems were tobe utilized for articles of clothing, Due to the new and innovative nature of camouflage, the field troops had no previous exposure in this area. Be- cause ofthe expansion and mobilization ofthe SS-VT, and not enough practical experience, no instruction booklet on the use of camouflage zelibahns had been published. The Inspector ofthe SS-VT Hausser or dered an instructional manual printed as soon as possible. In the mean- time troops were to reference an advisory letter by Schick dated 23 April 1937 as to the use of camouflage. Troops were not to utilize the old army instructional book *Grossen Kurfrsten.” It was not considered adequate and was outdated by the recent advancements in the field of camouflage’ ‘After the initial testing phase in January 1937, Himmler ordered the equipping of various units with zeltbahns. By 23 April 1937 the following deliveries had been made:* Articles Leibstandarte-SS Adolf Hitler 30 $$-Standarte “Deutschland” 40 ‘8-Standarte “Germania” 30 $S-Pioneersturmbann 6 sS-Nachrichtensturmbann 6 San, Abt. der SS-VT 10 ihrer der Totenkopfverbinde 1 VerwaltungsameSS di Zentralkanzlei 3 Reserve B 6CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Early Plane T Himmler further ordered that the SS Regiment “Deutschland” be fully equipped by August of that year. SS Obergruppenfiihrer Daluege, Chief of Police, requested that Himmler aso order zeltbahns for the Ordinungspolze (state police). Production of camouflage, however, was hampered by short supplies and the slow hand printing process Zeltbahns could not be spared for police troops. Despite difficulties Schick reported that on 1 November 1938 mass production of the zeltbahn was already in progress. On 23 November 1938 Himmler senta letter to the SS Hauptamt inquiring when the SS-VT and SS-TV (Totenkopfverbiinde) could be equipped * By January 1939, 8400 zeltbahns had been delivered to units of the SS-VT. It was planned that the greater part of the troops would be equipped by April 1939. SS-TV companies were also to be provisioned. In June 1940 Pohl stated that production was primarily an issue of raw materials, An increase in mate- Tal could only be negotiated through Army High Command (OKH),”At this time 8500 zeltbahns were being produced monthly. He additionally Stated the new machine roller was increasing production of the camou Alage jacket (Tamjacke).* Zetbahn production, however, was stl lim ited to manual printing techniques. The Plane Tree pattern used in zelt ‘manufacture was never applicable to mechanization because ofthe di mensions involved. In 1942 withthe rapid expansion ofthe Waffen SS, it ‘sas no longer possible to maintain supply quotas with Plane Tree al Other pattems were utilized to mitigate shortages. Oak Leaf and Bh Edge, both machine printed designs, began to augment deliveries, Ear. hes prints, suchas the Palm patter, were not utlized inthe mass pro Guction ofzeltbahns and are noticeably absent, By the winter of 1942 it as necessary to implement measures for conservation, Begining 1 November 1942 until 31 March 1943, reserve troops would not be is lone. lurred 6 ree no. 6 sued with zeltbahns? In September 1943 no zeltbahns could be made availble to supply troops, with the exception of medical companies. (Only combat troops would be issued those accessories. Mounted per: sonnel could receive up to 25 percent of what was required by supply troops." In March 1944 both Plane Tree and Blurred Edge patterns were rendered obsolete with the introduction of the Dot pattem. This new pattern was to replace all preexistent styles. Drastic shortages and bur geoning manpower requirements, however, dictated the continuance ofcertain existing apparatus. Oak Leaf pattems were retained for zeltbahn printing. It was this pattern that would finish the war as the prevalent example of the SS zeltbahn. Though there was intention to employboth Dot and Leiber patterns, these preparations never progressed beyond the experimental stage. The final winter of 1944-45 experienced the analo- ‘gous restrictions of previous years. Effective 1 November 1944 reserve Units would not be issued zeltbahns." Field troops were to recall these items for reissue in March 1945 Zeltbahns played a versatile role in the field. They were ulized a5 camouflage for both men and equipment. Their excellent waterproof ing and wind-resistant capabilities gave protection during periods oft clement weather. The button hole edging permitted multiple segment tent design. High tensile sirength allowed for miscellaneous usage Such asa basis for medical stretchers, etc.. The zeltbahn was normally carted tolled with accessories inside." When ready for use as tentage it could be joined with almost any number of zlts to produce varying size tens Most troops were expected to find billets for themselves or pitch theit shelter tents. Heavy tentage was generally avoided except around sparsely Populated areas in severe climates such as Russia In such cases it W35CHAPTER 2: ZELTBAHNS: thought essential to supply heavy tentage as opposed to the zeltbahn. ‘Under mast conditions houses and buildings were considered tobe more sable options. They provided better protection from the weather and ‘concealment from the enemy. Nearly all surgeons in Russia preferred permanent structures in place of tentage."s Sanitation and heating were principle reasons. AS the war progressed frontlines were volatile and rapidly changing. Little time was available to pitch tents. Soldiers pre- ferred a foxhole covered by zeltbahns affording them better protection, ‘Zeltbahn tentage became increasingly impracticable. In the las stages of the war their primary role was one of concealment and weather protec- tion. ‘Materials used in the construction of zeltbahns was relatively con- sistent until 1943. The fabric content was typically 233/67 spun rayon- cotton blend." In that year the SS was allocated only 15 percent ofits projected cotton requirements.* The high quality cotton duck gradually ‘gave way to an increasingly crude woven cloth. By late 1944 fabric used in the production of zeltbahns had litle in common with its predeces- sors. Tick, coarse material rch in substitute fibers (principally rayon) ‘were common in 1945. The water-tepellency was accomplished bya three step process using Persistol Notes 1.6. Oto Schick, An den ReichsfihrerSS, Bet: Abschluss der Arbeiten fir die Tamaustistung., Miinchen, 1 November 1938, 2 Reichsfhrer$S Himmler, An das Reichspatentamt Berlin, 1 Marz 1939. 3, $S VBLAW.SS, Ne.8 15 Apel 19, Zi. 169. This order imposed va ‘ous categorical restrictions. Physical ailments and injuries such as spl- ; nal, brain, intestinal, and even ar sickness were unsuitable, Other limit: tions were put on the use of glasses false teeth, body size, and stutter ing. Age limits of 35 years for officers, 30 years for NCO's, and enlisted ranks were also delineated. 3. Personal evaluations by M.D. Beaver of 8 original examples.CHAPTER 8: SS PARATROOPSCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS transport glidersCHAPTER 8: SS PARATROOPS be eagle was worn on rest withthe manufactur:CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Above lef Jump smack wit the SS eagle in its traditional location. This is mst likey ‘a personal alteration. G Ptersen. ight 8 jump suits bad the same features down tothe flare pistol bolder. G Petersen The example s in the Bastogne Historical Cener, Bastogne, Belgium. lt may be one ’ oftbe few surviving smock bat actually saw combat senceCHAPTER 8: SS PARATROOPS jgnia. Nootber uniform bas been ig insChapter o TROPICAL CLOTHING (Tropenbekleidung) n which remained consistent throughout the duration of the svar. Despite a continuous presence in those regions, no specific ‘camouflage was developed for that purpose, This was likely due to the versatility of existent pattems. Their fully reversible aspects lent them: selves well to geographical variances. In some hotter climates the pros pect of wearing camouflage smocks over uniforms was impractical. There fore, SS troops were issued various lightweight sand colored garments foruse in those areas. The subject of those uniforms is not entirely ap plicable to this work. To preclude omission, however, this field is briefly mentioned and several examples depicted. The SSVerordnungsblatt makes litle mention of special tropical ‘wear. A brief statement instructing SS officers to disregard army tropical regulations appeared in April 1941.* Not until until October 1943 did the subject appear again and address the issue of tropical clothing more fully? A early as 1941 the SS were engaged in tropical theaters of opera- Notes 1, VBLd.W.-SS., Nr. 7, 15 April 1941, Zif. 195. 2.Ibid,, Nr. 19, 1 October 1943, Ziff. 370 SStrepical field cap Right. Close up view of tbe rare ropical insignia. Hardy Relatively few SS troops serving in bot climates actually received be tan caps Many boa? CHAPTER 9: TROPICAL CLOTHING aces were te samen cu a blr anc Ts example ste snd model pated pm iloms wor te Tf faces wee cman aed be “thar Cures of Hard : 7ar the “Sabariana’ with tan field caps Later madels ofthis rior the pockets Special woven insignias made from tan colored rayon were produced for these SS person uniforms. Of significant interest to tis book iste wrong application ofthe eagle _lacked the Many collectors assume it was produced forthe camouflaged garments because of itssubdued nature The early issue M-44 dl uniforms used tbe silver gray variety The practice of applying sleeve eagles was soon discontinued and, therefore, the need for a camouflage eagle never materialized It is posible, bowever, that a ‘pratoype may bave been developed similar to the eagle used on the camouflage {field cap. There are two unsubstantiated reports of such. adaptation was to wear te smock tbo theb For veteran soldiers the early earth grey {nto service Despite orders forbidding the wo sbous the uniforms continuing o be worn. Ofien evolving trends in SS clotbing In this case the ad buon ron gave be norm a more contenpora sake early drill uniform was lightweight, easly washable, and ver suited 10 hen camparda wal frm Yr fen feata w™ are known to exist, 22CHAPTER 9; TROPICAL CLOTHING: = a pawn shop by the wife of veteran. ers badge seu on._Ghaprer 10° MODIFICATIONS his chapter illustrates @ minute cross-section ofthe many varia Temes inthe field. Changes were made to virtually every garment. Smocks cu into shirts, uniforms made from zetbahns ‘and the addition/subtraction of foliage loops are but a fraction of the ‘whole, Modifications existed both at personal and company evel. Occa sionally photographs illustrate a group of individuals wearing identic modified garments. One example depicts a group of SS soldiers wearing ‘mocks in Russia, all modified with the addition of chest pockets. An- ‘other is Knights Cross winner Leon Degrelle, wearing an overseas cap made from Plane Tree camouflage material. It would be impossible here toctegorize the wide variety of articles. It is pertinent though to evalu: Toe man at center wears tailor made Palm patter panzer uniform Bight This panzer crewmember in Rusa bas modified the Palm smock in tincianaua< ate alterations and to recognize them as such. Too often modifications are mistakenly identified as prototypes. The key to unders area is knowledge of the subject in general When evaluating existing uniforms one inevitably faces the ques sanding this tion of post war alterations, This difficult sphere must be analyzed on he basis of photographic evidence, material and workmanship, origin, and practicality of the ent, At best, the process tends to be quite subjective, The German oclivty towards voguish wear only intensifies ther had significan the debate, The uniforms selected for this cha provenance or met criteria mate wartime efforts easonably suggesting their changes as legitCHAPTER 10: MODIFICATIONS ant because certain alterations may have ben made postwar for anime change isincreased. ight Rearview modified Palm smock ™ Interior view showing pockets jCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SSCHAPTER 10: MODIFICATIONS. St che packs and ars apr Hause ay (righ) bs sai cu she pe ala (center) wears abigly customized smock with chest pockets and nbisjacket, e 9CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFF EN-SS ‘Autumn colors are quite dramatic on tbis Blurred Ege smock. Spring side is shown on the opposite page ‘Shortened sleeves are the ony changes made to this HBT example. Of equa interest Late number 5 Plane Tree with shortened sleeves isthe noticeable printing lau: R. Nass “_CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SSCHAPTER 10: MODIFICATIONS origin. The M42 shoun bere bas the elastic waistband lowered to close off the pockets. There is also evidence tbat chest arly pattern drill trousers altered with tapered ankles ight. The Plane Tree no. 3 patter is easily discerned. 2a These Keilbose pattern trousers are now sraight leg ‘ype This pair was acquired from a veteran who sated they were taken from a member ofthe “Hitleryoub division ‘These trousers are tecbnically not modifications They ‘are some ype of variation which appear fo be factory ‘made. Their use s unknown. Otber examples bave be ‘camouflage patter seun into the interior exposing & ae =CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS This parka bas the bood neatly removed ‘Blurred Edge parka, less the bood. One veteran of the “Hileryoutb” division sta rk rmoujlage side out, the white underside of ran ofthe “Hileryoutb division st eben irae fo tha un warn tb para wit became. a resting in terrible bead wounds.CHAPTER 10: MODIFICATIONSeee vey tailored SS wind jacketCHAPTER 10: MODIFICATIONS regulation camouflage shorts This pair is a cut down version ofthe Thee wee no regulation ws rl roses mero vw ft 2alabn origins be previous wind jacket clearly displays the no. 2 Plane Tree Aight Feld made camouflage caps were made in a variety of fashions 27Chapter 11 LEIBERMUSTER PATTERN ‘vas introduced in the final months ofthe war. This radically ‘new design was known as the Leibermuster or, more simply, Leber patter. Iwas the product ofS research and development, again Ineaded by Professor Schick. Assisting him were SS Hauptsturmflbrers Lechler, Krug, and Fischer: Their headquarters were centered at the Bekleidungswerk Der Wafen-SS, 33 Karlstrasse 10, Munich, The Leiber pattern was completely diferent from all previous de- ‘elopments by either army or SS standards. Its innovative qualities had several new concepts. Itwas well known that camouflage patterns tended tolose their distinctiveness at relatively shor distances. Colors blended together lessening the camouflage effectiveness. t was particularly no- ticeabe wit the army's Water pattem design. This weakness was care- fully considered in the new patter. Another important feature was the inra-ted resistant design. This ‘was incorporated through the use of Aniline Black dye, which was found tobe paricula effective when photographed through infra-red fers 1G. Farben had previously evaluated all ofthe vat dyes to determine thebest possible combinations against nfa-red detection. Acolor known as Hydron Olive GX was found to be effective, and its use would im- prove their camouflage effons. Printing of the Leiber patter was diferent compared to former machine printed examples, The earlier types were produced on rollers of equal circumference, In order to achieve a natural appearing random ‘effect in the pattern, a new process was introduced, Rollers of varying size were used, thereby eliminating conspicuous patter repeats Roller sizes were: G== final bid at creating an effective camouflage pattern large black pate 44.1 cm circumference ‘Small black pate 50'5 em circumference Red pattern 46.2.cm circumference large green pattern 48.2 cm circumference Small green pattern 49 om circumference Tan pattern 50cm circumference Five different colors were incorporated in the [amem, The color composiion wan inthe manufacture of this 258 Datk Green: indanthren Briliant Green 4G Light Green: same as dark but reduced 1:1 Red: indanthren Scarlet GG Supralix Black: Aniline black Tan: indanthren brown TMZ Suprafx, indanthren Yellow G, and indanthren Brilliant Green B The combination ofthese colors would produce sharp distincive pattern, This, the SS hoped, would alleviate the blending tendency in camouflage at distances. The army was also acutely aware ofthis deficiency in their pattem, Therefore, the Leiber design was adopted as a replacement ol exis ing camouflage pattems. This revolutionary precedent would producea uniformity to all combat branches within the German Armed Fores. Although this had been a longstanding goal, it would never be imple- mented, The Leiber pattern was introduced far too late inthe war to change the face of German combat troops. The printing factories id not receive information on this new pattern until 15 January 1652 By the war's end it is doubtful if more than a few small units were equipped in this pattern, There are reports of SS foreign volunteers in the Bali regions wearing them. Allegedly, retreating SS troops in the vicinity of Riga, Latvia were dressed in the garments. Without tangible proof, how- ever, evidence regarding the usage of Leibermuster suits remains sketchy and unsubstantiated, One example existed in the Riga museum Until 1992. Additionally, within the last decade, eight legitimate examples of the M-5 pattern Leiber jacket were discovered in Moscow. These Si viving uniforms verify production and limited issue, but at what level remains uncertain, Uniforms manufactured in this rare printing are known only by SU viving examples and U.S. army intelligence reports. Because the Leiber was intended for all camouflage uniforms, an analysis of German #2 ‘ments being manufactured in 1945 helps illuminate the possbltes TM reversible winter parka was produced in this pattern. One kno8? 7 ample exists. There is a report of the 4 pocket HBT nS jacketin this pattern,‘ There are alsoa small handful of M-45sho® of two pocket jackets in private collections. Additionally, eve PO trousers have been located. There were shelter quarters voces Leiber print, but the authors have not encountered any Sura amples, welCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS (Original page ofthe 1945 Richardson report sbowing the patern. This documenta tion definitively places tbe creation of his pattern with Nazi Germany. Many sepiics doubt the wartime validity of tis camouflage, despite the legitimate surviving examples While such skepticism i warranted inthis field. tbe Leibermuser is indeed autbentic and extremely rare Richardson credits te Swit tbs innovative pater twas, however, to replace, ameuslge paters of be German armed forces Ths Webrmachiseibabn hee ‘experimentation withthe “ears” design ovr a Splinter background. Note bar Portions of these designs can be located on al garment pctred in his chapter. The ‘overapping pins make u dificult discern individual motif This aspects cy ‘intentional feature in te new pater o give ita random eect . a Included in the Richardson report was a sample ofthe print on HET material. Several pieces ofthat sample til exist in privae collections. Ths small pieceisa section ofthat materialCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS The Leibermuster trousers were more complex in design wen com; pondwie — Thenworea ae ji ha rear ockes are pater lik be M44 rouse The sai cut ih jon is example arent he presed pape pe Couesy oR ankle mpifed production R Nas. SoaCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS ‘The following photographs (igures AF) show the US. army infared tems using the dye Hydron Green GX fared etter than those that di test results on German camouflage patterns after the war. Although the _not. The Leibermuster was also quite effective against infra-ted detec readers can draw their own conclusions itis apparent that those pat- tion thanks to the addition of black carbon. (2) “Leiber" pattern (2) normal army shelter half Isopan Infrared 850 mv Infrared 1050 mv Figure SS-canouflage cloth 2) normale ayes 2) with Tarnelive yaven Greens Infrared 850 Bi Gntrarad 1050 ua Figure 8 264Deen ae 2 esont cassie Garelive) Figure Hydvex Green GX Figure D Infrared 1050 w/aCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Infrared 850 E/2 TAtrared 4950 nea Figure E Army shelfer-halts (normel dyes) Combinah sn, Shelter Hal Lfoujo Tsopan a Ee 4 ke er ik Infrared 850 nya FigureCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS, Splimer pattern tent Mulpe segment tnt 268CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS. Luftwaffe soldier using the zeltbabn asa poncho, Panzer creus with Splinter paternzeltbabnCHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTIONCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS ‘Te anorak was completly reversible to white Here, worn by mountain troops The anorak provided good upper body camouflage, even covering the neckCHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTION Above lft Splinter patiern jump smock Above right Luftwaffe paratroopers in Splinter pattern Jump smocks Dace view of te ump smack, Courtesy of HodgeCHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTION Rear flare gun bolder.| CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Below: Figure A. Two diferent (fguresA and B) color versions of he Water pater Jump smock Rigbe PgureB 28CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SSLuftwaffe Splinter pattern) ground tumique aspect of facto ‘amouf such afoature Tis ex Courtesy of R SpeerCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Ground forces jacket modified to wear asa tunic.CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS ight Comparison of three diferent camouflage winter parkas aA aK 24 The winter uniform was fully reversible for snow camouflageCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Experimental Webrmacbt pattern, 1943, Courtesy of}. Selwyne (England) Rare water pattern using only green and tam colorsCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Anlage 2um V.Bld.W.-§§: Nr. 4, Ziffer 63 Dienstgradabzeichen fir Fuhrer und Unterfihrer der Waffen-#f an Bekleidungsstiicken ohne Schulterstiicke bzw. Schulterklappen #-Unterschartitirer Ee ea sD 44 Scharfiihrer 4-Untersturmtiihrer 14 -Brigadefiirer H4-Kauptsturmtibrer Sel al a 4-Sturmbannfibrer 4-Sturmscharfihrer BO schwarz wei8 grin gelb ded ere ise origina Wafen Sree ing work, ncChapter 7 M-44 CAMOUFLAGE DRILL UNIFORM — (Drillichanzug, getarnt) The ih quay coton dc ames wed he prion cameafige dtr ns bate Act ay 195 Fal ep! he sy 0 pee ton dk and neces le ne ae ee toe piaops bt ab te ata tos cles Bot rmgtallpesccnsuntta bench chet hg [Soak ean eed ge Roane mes ere luge aclu toner ed mm eeSpecie Pte er nee ae oe Sep npn ming poe pc ara oun tebe ET gonelatnecssnh nae a nlm an oer ay aapeareterst See eeran Toren hed ess either ote wed wba Tee erga: Tareoo qa nadcoce ete! SSRI staan ne here c TADS inG secon os weep tg Beet nashones secant Toomieunt Ghee camooflage Police Dell Uniform fete csr sce of wr 5th Aes appre Gem, ken actinides Acumen ft ie ese sal a mei ion wth ake Srmecit frm Batrsuee deck er eng Awd wih cory acd a sane pl (apostate Onnanppai The anouge pom ‘Ser Deter Soce une 936 ple ba ee pd tetris poll ae pe 8 oS ap Ben fh 965 pol wns urea com ncaa parte Stentor he le decode brie war SS ats ‘ote 1 Nenad We 2 a Hii, he nr im BVMAW SS, N20, Noeber 9 {Ne 21,1 Neer 2 TRANS, Ne Hsu C3 Ane pa 8a 9. 8,1 Occ 9 828.39. 2h + 1 et 12.05 Tae a Tec Tee, Nober 1CHAPTER 7: M-44 CAMOUFLAGE DRILL UNIFORM Ls Army photo ofthe MH dil trousers This spe ste Keibose modelCHAPTER 7: M-44 CAMOUFLAGE DRILL UNIFORMCAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-S5 SSpararoopers wore regulation Luftwaffe jump smocks The breast eagle was Frequent removed ‘SHaupsturmfubrer Kurt Rybka, comma Shims Kr Ra commander of Pararoep Banton 5H0in pil SSparatrcpes wera bode wear ‘man in tbe foreground has asplin colar tab being worn in 1944 This To's beadquarters in Yugostavia 234CHAPTER 11; LEIBERMUSTER PATTERN ‘The raw fabric in Leiber material is consistent with other compa- rable clothing manufactured in 1945. The outer shell ofthe winter parka is 100 percent spun rayon’ Other uniforms are constructed from vari ‘ous grades of HBT. Production techniques used in the construction of these examples are typical ofthe crude, “last ditch” efforts ofthe Third Reich. Buttons were an assortment of standard field-grey pebble, both metal and the fragile composite type. Pressed paper buttons were also employed for smaller closures. Several jackets retain their original Reichsbetriebnummer (RBN) issue markings, These numbers represent the various component sizes in the garment, plusa coded manufacturer's number Like other German combat uniforms, those printed in the Leiber pattem were waterproofed before issue. Shelter quarters were given @ Persistol bath, while jackets and uniform fabrics received the water re- pellent Hydrophobol Original section of Leibermuster camouflage printed on HBT material. Unlike dering roller szes used inte process. Courtesy of R Noss ~ # aber machine printed patterns te repeat is more dificult determine because of be Decades after the war a modern army still wore a derivative of the Leibermuster. So close in design, the untrained eye may not distinguish the difference. I's ironic to consider that perhaps Germany's best con- tribution to modern camouflage, may be its least known achievement Notes 1. Francis S Richardson, QMC Consultant, Camouflage Fabrics both Plain and Printed for Military Use by the German SS and German Army, 20July 1945, Pa. 3. 2. bid, Pg. 32 3. bid, Pg 3. 4, Personal interview with historian George Petersen 5, Richardson report, Pg. 15, 29CHAPTER 11; LEIBERMUSTER PATTERNCHAPTER 11: LEIBERMUSTER PATTERN he upper sees have buns or idensficaton ands Because of eae eonctarof se arlene) tat any were ve seChapter 12 COMPARATIVE SECTION (Camouflage Uniforms of the Wehrmacht) sin better appreciation inthe distinctiveness of S camouflage, _ is truly outside the scope of our present subject. Nevertheless, any seri neral knowledge of Wehrmacht patterns is required, Illustrated ous studies of SS camouflage mandates at least a cursory understanding are examples of typical garments wor by those forces. It is not _of such material. Considering that goal, a comparative chapter is pro- sive in nature. No commentary i provided since this matter vided to acquaint the reader with this field. nen ren ae ae 27 from the 1945 Richard Water pater Water pattemCHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTION the larger is painted.CAMOUFLAGE UNIFORMS OF THE WAFFEN-SS Hermann Giring division PAK section Rearview ofthe smack Note tbe introduc: Like te S version the fist army belmet cover bad ro foliage tion ofthe hood foliage loops: L Baer Splinter pattern belmet cover. Courtesy of. Speer ead view othe Spinerbelmet cover and second pater smock,CHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTION Camouflage airborne belmet cover Chinstrap deta. Splinter patern airborne belmet cover Courtesy of SpeerCHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTION ‘Army general wearing Li uftwafe ground forces smockCHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTIONCHAPTER 12: COMPARATIVE SECTION Splinter pattern winter parka Note he sraight edge pocket lap, The SS version was scalloped ype son the eft wear be early feld-grey liner pattem. Below: Webrmacht winter uniform. To: version, while te man on te right basAPARATIVE SECAppend WAFFEN -SS RANK REFERENCE oS on FiS RANK REFERENCE APPENDIX: WAFFEN- Sleeve insignia yer machine seu or printed. Spown bere are SS Brigadefubrer (yellow), and SS Oberstar Printed example of Sn ¥, Spears