1. Feldbluse (tunic). The M36 tunic is preferred since the unit was raised pre-war, but later versions such as the M40 are acceptable, since all types were issued to replace what was worn out as the war progressed. With the exception of the M44, which was a short tunic, the fit of all Feldblusen is to be short. It should NOT cover the buttocks in the same manner that a civilian suit jacket does.
2. Berghosen (mountain trousers), Langhosen or Keilhosen. Berghosen (preferred) were issued to all mountain-type troops, but Langhosen and Keilhosen were issued as the war progressed. 3. Heereshemd (army service shirt).
4. Bergstiefel (mountain boots). These are preferred, but difficult to find. Swiss mountain boots are generally available and are acceptable substitutes. German Army Ankle Boots (Schnurschue) are acceptable. Felt tops are acceptable if you believe weather conditions make the other types too cold to wear. Marschstiefel (marching boots) and Jackboots are less of a signature item, but were issued.
5. Gemaschen (gaiters) or Wickelgemaschen (Puttees). Gebirgsjager are most often shown wearing puttees, but these are also difficult to find.
6. Two Belts. (1 for formation, walking out, and 1 kitted out for tactical)
7. Bergmutz (mountain cap) with “pinch” on the front insignia with an Edelweiss insignia on the left side.
8. Helmet.
9. Belt hooks (preferred) or Y Strap. The Gebirgsjager generally did not use the Y Strap since they were often wearing a rucksack.
10. Mess kit 11. Canteen 12. Bread bag 13. Gas Mask can w/ mask 14. Bayonet 15. K-98 rifle (can be rented/loaned from unit) 16. Ammo pouches 17. Entrenching Tool w/carrier (Straight and folding require different bayonet frogs) 18. Barracks Only: Set of single sheets w/pillow, blue check pattern duvet, two blankets (at least one grey), stool, white laundry bag
Veteran Impression: 2 Years plus in the unit.
Must have the items in the basic impression, plus:
1. German language skills: formation commands and tactical commands and songs. 2. Windbluse (Anorak) in mouse-brown or grey. 3. ID Disc Soldbuch Zeltbahn tent Assault Frame 1 lt. Mountain canteens (2 were issued) 4. Windjacket (optional). 5. Rucksack 6. Barracks Only: German Hand Towels, Period Foot Locker, Dinner set: Plate, Bowl, Silverware and Cup/Mug
Gebirgsfuhrer Impression This is the top tier impression that some members have achieved, some are aspiring to. It is not required that Veteran Impressions grow into this, but it should be considered a goal.
Items that would be included:
Climbing kit: Mountain pack, skis, poles, snowshoes, ice axe, pitons, piton hammer, rope. Personal items such as letters, photographs, magazines, books, toiletries German footlocker General Authenticity Requirements:
In General: We are portraying a WW2 German military unit and should carry ourselves like German soldiers.
Military courtesy should prevail at all times: respect for rank, following chain of command, salutes when and where appropriate, following orders given by your superior in rank.
Understanding of WW2 German squad tactics.
Understanding of the performance of weapons carried by the Gebirgsjager (i.e., rounds per minute, rate of fire, etc.)
The Heil Hitler salute, while it was supposed to replace the traditional army salute after July 1944, is not to be used.
The German soldier had an offensive mindset during battle. The machine gun was used offensively like mobile artillery and was protected by rifle teams with subautos interspersed, particularly carried by NCOs and Officers. German soldiers defended by counter-attacking even when covering a withdrawal.
Visible FARB is verboten. This includes non-period food and drink containers. FARB also includes items that were not issued to Gebirgsjager, or clothing that would not have been worn in a particular theatre or type of duty. We all know stories or have seen evidence where soldiers picked up something in the field that was expedient as a temporary measure. Those expediencies were replaced by issued gear as soon as possible, but unfortunately, some re-enactors like to carry them as if they were issued. When this happens, the authenticity of our impression suffers.
Hair should be a period 1940’s hair cut. The German Army haircut is not required since most of us have to return to civilian life and you will see photographs with literally dozens of variations. The hair was short and off the ears and collar. Mustaches rarely worn, beards were not uncommon among mountain troops when in the mountains, but were kept short. Beards are restricted to a few existing members. New members must be clean-shaven.
If you are in doubt about a particular aspect of your impression, you should inquire about it to an NCO. Those individuals are empowered to enforce this policy and you are required to follow their direction. Reasonable exceptions may exist and can be discussed, but they should be minor and strictly temporary/short term.
