Description:

SS ROTTENFUHRER''S COLLAR TABS WITH AMERICAN P.O.W. RELICS
Good pair of black wool collar tabs, each 1 1/2" x 2", one displaying the embroidered SS "sig" runes, and the other bearing two silver thread bands, indicating the rank of "rottenfuhrer" ("section leader"). The tabs are sewn to a grey wool collar cut from an overcoat, measuring approx. 19 1/2" x 4". This relic is believed to have been liberated by Private, First Class William Racine of the 80th Infantry Division, who was imprisoned at Stalag VII-A in Moosburg, Bavaria following his capture during the Battle of the Bulge. Present in this lot are numerous articles of ephemera related to Racine''s service and captivity, including: A.L.S, 1p. long 8vo., "Stalag VII-A", Nov. 5, 1944, from Racine to his mother Lucy, informing her that he is well and requesting that she send food and cigarettes. The letter has been executed on a German "Kriegsgefangenenpost" ("War Prisoner Post") form, stamped as being mailed from the camp. His mother''s response, dated Feb. 8, 1945, is also present, although marked as being returned as undeliverable. WITH: large group 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" b/w photos, each a chest-up depiction of enlisted men and NCO''s of the 80th Infantry Division in uniform, likely Racine''s regiment mates, each identified on the verso with their rank and hometown, with some additionally marked "K.I.A." The photos are housed in an original shipping box addressed to Racine. WITH: five printed booklets, including a 1943 Christmas and New Year''s program for the 80th at Camp Laguna, Arizona; souvenir booklet, 34pp. 12mo., "Forward 80th"; familiarization booklet, 48pp. 12mo., entitled "Pocket Guide to Germany", with a large anti-fraternization warning on the front cover; religious booklet, 40pp. 12mo., by Daniel A. Lord, entitled "A Salute to the Men in Service"; religious booklet, 64pp. 12mo., "Catholic Prayer Book of the Army and Navy". All show wear, else very good; WITH: B/W photo, 6" x 3 1/2", showing a large group of 80th infantry division men outside of barracks, either during training in the U.S. or possibly following the liberation of Stalag VII-A. All very good. Should be seen.

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April 17, 2018 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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