Set WP+SB+EKM – Grenadier-Regiment 317 (211. Infanterie-Division) – 4 Nahkampftage (5x Awards)

Original Soldbuch (German Wehrmacht Pay Book and Identity Document) belonging to Hermann Gormanns, an Oberfähnrich d.R. (Reserve Officer Candidate) who served with Infanterie-Regiment 317 / Grenadier-Regiment 317, part of the 211. Infanterie-Division (211th Infantry Division).

The Soldbuch contains numerous handwritten entries, official stamps and signatures documenting his military service. Particularly interesting is the record of four Nahkampftage (close-combat days), with locations recorded as Punkt 149.7, Klinzy, Debrik and Bakunowitschi. These entries provide a fascinating glimpse into his service on the Eastern Front.

Another noteworthy entry describes him as a “Kämpfer der Infanterie” (Infantry Fighter), an unusual and interesting inscription for collectors of Wehrmacht documents.

Recorded decorations include:

• Infanterie-Sturmabzeichen (Infantry Assault Badge) – 15 October 1942
• Winterschlacht im Osten-Medaille (Eastern Front Medal) – 2 August 1942
• Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern (War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords) – 30 November 1942
• Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) – 19 April 1943
• Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse (War Merit Cross 1st Class) – also recorded in the Soldbuch

The booklet also contains entries relating to equipment, leave and military administration, adding further detail to the service history of its original owner.

The 211. Infanterie-Division fought on the Eastern Front, including in the central sector, where its units experienced prolonged and heavy fighting against Soviet forces. The close-combat entries and recorded locations make this Soldbuch particularly interesting for collectors researching German infantry service on the Eastern Front.

Condition: The Soldbuch shows age-related wear, staining and signs of handling. The portrait photograph is missing. Otherwise, it remains in good condition for an original wartime document, with numerous handwritten entries, stamps and signatures.

An appealing and well-documented Soldbuch with multiple recorded decorations, four close-combat days and the unusual “Kämpfer der Infanterie” entry.