ZA-Making History Personal

[RossK]

I have had an interest in numbered SS Zivilabzeichen pins and the possibilities of identifying the original recipients. A few months ago I was able to obtain a Gahr example from a dealer in Germany that was the first one I had independently identified from my research. So commenced another collecting adventure in making history personal.

[RossK]

The pin has the ZA number 26 674 engraved on its reverse. German records revealed that this number was assigned to SS-Scharführer Willi Waldbauer, SS No. 32 252 and noted his service at the SS-Junkerschule Tölz.

[RossK]

His records provided his birth date which led to locating his NSDAP membership file card. Fortunately, the card still had his photo attached with the added bonus of him wearing his Allgemeine-SS uniform.

[RossK]

Though his service records were sparse, it was noted that he went on to serve in the Gestapo in Klagenfurt, Austria!

[RossK]

This was quite a coincidence for me since I had visited Klagenfurt last September.

[RossK]

Part of the logo of the city includes a “Lindwurm” or winged dragon. According to legend the town was founded after a couple of men had slain the beast in ancient times. A large dragon memorial is located in the town’s center.

[RossK]

While there I had the opportunity to meet with veterans of the German armed forces including one who commanded one of the “steel dragons” during the war. This is Manfred Thorn who served in the LSSAH and is among the last Germans still living who were at Malmady. I took the photo while he was being interviewed about his experiences. I never thought I would spend time with anyone who served with the Leibstandarte.

[RossK]

This is a wartime photo of Thorn. Meeting him along with other German veterans of a war that ended before I was born along with discovering the identities of those associated with the relics of that time has truly brought history alive for me.

Enjoy!

[ErichS]

Congrats Ross on your find and yeah, it's about the history!

[JoeW]

Bit of luck there Ross, to match it with the listing of lost badges. I haven't been so lucky. Must feel great to put it all together.

[Wim Vangossum]

Thanks for sharing this kind of info, Ross.




Regards, Wim

[der-hase-fee]

Another temping niche to collect personalized items. Quite a few GPB's are also being matched by means of the listings of lost badges, but fortunately there are many more sources available, besides these.

[Martin M.]

Ross, a very nice attributed Gahr SS Zivilabzeichen. The original recipient of mine was also found through the listing of lost badges.

[Tom B]

Congrats on this find Ross ! Very nice ! Tom