Graves

It is a sad truth that people die in war. The German army suffered large numbers of casualties in th wartime period. There were a few patterns of grave markers used by the German Military. Early graves appeare to be more elaborate than later ones but there is is a great deal of variability. One common pattern was the shape of the Iron Cross. It is not clear if this was reserved for recipients of these medals or not. Simple wooden crosses could be made in the field and the soldiers helmet was often placed on top. Another form was the cross with what I would describe as a roof. This traditional European shape reflects the Lychgate entrance to the cemetary. Name, rank, birth, and death dates were all commonly inscribed in various combinations. ​

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