Shoulder board unit slip info

[FloridaLancer]

Hey guys,

I've got a few shoulder slips laying around, and wondered about these. The only info I can find is that the "L" means regional defense battalion(?). I can't find any info on these battalions, and was hoping someone could shed some light on their role in the army in Europe. Are they security? I'm sorry if this is well known info, but I just can't find anything on it. Thanks in advance for any info guys.

[Schulterklappen]

Landesschützen

I think it stands for Landesschützen. I am not sure; but, think they were a reserve type unit. One use for them was guarding prisoners. Later in the war they were thrown in at the front. Here is on link:

http://www.lexikon-der-wehrmacht.de/Gliederungen/DivisionsnzbV/460zbV.htm

Here is so good info:

http://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=50&t=102908

[Johnny R]

Yes, they were reserve troops, generally older guys, wounded or others not fit for active front duty Sort of like the Home Guard. Some people think the Gothic "L" is only used for Lehr but based on unit numbers it seems it was also was used by Reserve units. Early in the War, these troops secured rear areas, rail yards-airfields in Germany and occupied areas etc. Wehrkreis facilities etc. but by the last year of the War used in the line.

http://www.lexikon-der-wehrmacht.de/...tzBat881-R.htm

http://www.lexikon-der-wehrmacht.de/...tzBat446-R.htm

[OSS]

As mentioned, the Landesschutzen or Landwehr were home guard units but many were committed on German soil and were important elements in the thinly held Westwall, which likely could not have held without them.