K005257 CONVALESCENT'S CLOTHING/POSSESSIONS BAG. (Genesung Beutel)

BACKGROUND: Although each division in the German army of WWII had divisional support units which included a medical unit that normally consisted of two companies, a field hospital and two ambulance platoons there was also an extensive organization of higher echelon army first-aid stations and hospitals. Wounded personnel would first be moved to the units first-aid station for immediate evaluation and care and if the wounds were of a severe nature the individual would then be transferred to the regimental or divisional first-aid stations. If the wounds were very serious the individual would then be sent to an army hospital in the rear area. Very severely wounded personnel that would require a long time for recuperation would be evacuated to a civilian hospital near his home if possible. Generally all levels of military units preferred to treat their own wounded as evacuation to a rear army or civilian hospital could result in the individual being assigned to a different unit when released. The success of the German military’s medical organization can be judged on the fact that those evacuated to a hospital had a 98.5% chance of recovery. The Kriegsmarine also utilized the army’s land based hospitals but as a result of their somewhat isolated position on the open seas they also employed temporary on-board sick bays and specific hospital ships. When hospitalized, personnel would turn in all their equipment and clothing to the hospital/sick bay administration who would issue a return chit, maintain the individuals possessions and supply a hospital "uniform". This bag would have been utilized to store a convalescents possessions until they were released from care.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: The roughly, 22 1/2" tall, 30 3/4" wide, woven cotton construction convalescent’s storage bag with machine stitched sides seams features a distinctive, vertical, striped pattern consisting of alternating blue and white stripes. The top edge of the bag is opened and has three pair of white cotton, closure tie tapes with an HBT, (Herring Bone Twill), weave. One side of the bag is well marked with a black inkstamped Eagle over "M" indicating Kriegsmarine issue and additional unknown abbreviated designation inkstamps that include, "St. V. W.", and, "W.A 1941". The bag is in overall very good condition with minimal age toning.

GRADE ***1/4                             PRICE $168.00