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Bathing

German soldiers were expected to be clean and tidy in their appearance at all times except when in active combat. This gave rise to the nickname for frontline soldiers "Frontschwein" meaning front pigs for their smell and dirty appearance. German soldiers bathed and deloused themselves as frequently as possible using whatever ingenious method they could find to make an improvised tub or shower. When all else failed they could fill a basin with water and give themselves a quick wash in key areas. Photos in this collection show men bathing in rivers, lakes, deserts, and even in snowy fields. 

These photographs were taken from a number of online sources and auction sites.  They are presented here for educational purposes.  

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