This is something I have not yet seen, a Wehrpass for a Gebirgsjäger with the reason for death listed as "Selbsmord, Herzschuß" (suicide, shot in the heart). Instead of the normal Wehpaß family document is starts with a note from the Komp. commander that his letters have been released by the military court (Kriegsgericht).
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he was an Austrian soldier from Salzburg and received his Werhpass in 1940 -
pages 2 and 3 of WehrpassComment
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He entered Gebirgsjäger Rgt 137 in Feb 1942Comment
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he was with 137 for his entire military serviceComment
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weapons training and other trainingComment
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promotionsComment
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As his WP clearly shows, he belonged to Reserve Gebirgsjäger Regiment 137 and not Gebirgsjäger Regiment 137. Two completely different units which served in different theaters and belonged to different divisions.
Many people mix up this and several other GJR regiments which also had a 'reserve' counterpart.Collecting German award documents, other paperwork and photos relating to Norway and Finland.Comment
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he was removed from the "fighting troops" due to some declaration (HV B.1941, Ziffer 768)Comment
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Last entries where he committed suicide on 17 January, 1944 with place of burial given.Comment
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Never seen such an entry. Wonderful!Comment
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Amazing, Jim. You turn up some great IDs my friend!
RobComment
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Rob, it was in a stack of Wehrpäße that I picked up from a guy from Austria in Reichertshofen a few weeks ago. I must admit that it is the first one I have seen with a suicide entry. I am told that this also could have ramifications for the family and you can imagine the stress the front soldiers were constantly under.
JimComment
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The battalion was on occupation duties in North Italy at the time. Belluno according to various sources.Collecting German award documents, other paperwork and photos relating to Norway and Finland.Comment
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Simon, thanks for the additional information.
JimComment
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