I hope this is not a stupid question?

[andya]

Hi
Trying to educate myself with regards to WW1 Insignia period and keep coming across things I cannot find an answer to.
My questions regarding these men are firstly, am I correct they are Landsturm Battalion 52.If this is the case why do some wear the 52 as one number and others with a 5 and 2 on different tabs?
thank you andy

[R.Beck]

Hi
Trying to educate myself with regards to WW1 Insignia period and keep coming across things I cannot find an answer to.
My questions regarding these men are firstly, am I correct they are Landsturm Battalion 52.If this is the case why do some wear the 52 as one number and others with a 5 and 2 on different tabs?
thank you andy

I'm certain others will chime in, but the bottom photo looks as though that soldier is holding a manbaby

[17thairborne]

I do not collect WW1 items, but can only say it saved 50% on insignia costs to put the 5 on one side and the 2 on the other. I would think with the large influx of recruits, perhaps supply could not keep up with the numbers needed to outfit soldiers so this was an expedient measure that affected only some. I am not basing this on any research.

Also note the difference in the shoulder straps of the two 50% insignia men

[Wilhelm]

Those 2 are the only ones with weapons and gear too?

[Chip M]

I think the shoulder straps are rolled due to the breadbag strap being worn. As mentioned, the lack of full collar numbers is probably just an expedient.

Chip

[andya]

Many thanks to all who replied
regards
andy

[joerookery]

, the lack of full collar numbers is probably just an expedient.

True

Landsturm Battalion 52

No. BRIGADE 52.

http://www.pickelhauben.net/articles/Landsturm.html

http://www.militaria.at/Book.aspx?bo...60&Language=en