Description

This minifigure represents the quintessential German Wehrmacht infantryman, the backbone of Germany’s armed forces during World War II. The Wehrmacht, officially established in 1935, encompassed the army (Heer), navy (Kriegsmarine), and air force (Luftwaffe). However, it was the Heer’s infantry that carried the weight of combat operations across Europe, Africa, and the Soviet Union.

When Germany launched its invasion of Poland in September 1939, infantry troops led the charge, supported by artillery and the growing armoured divisions of the Panzerwaffe. These soldiers were equipped with the Karabiner 98k bolt-action rifle, a reliable descendant of the Mauser series, which remained the standard-issue weapon throughout the war. Supplementary arms included stick grenades, bayonets, and the MG34 or MG42 machine guns, which provided devastating firepower at the squad level.

The uniform depicted on this minifigure reflects the classic feldgrau (field grey) tunic and trousers and grey cap. This appearance was designed for both practicality and a distinctive military appearance. Soldiers normally wore a M35 steel helmet, with its deep, protective rim, a silhouette instantly recognizable in wartime photographs. Field gear included ammunition pouches, a bread bag, a canteen, and the entrenching tool, emphasizing the infantryman’s ability to march long distances and dig into defensive positions.

The Wehrmacht infantry fought on every front — from the beaches of Normandy and deserts of North Africa to the frozen battlefields of Stalingrad. Campaigns such as Operation Barbarossa in 1941 showcased both their efficiency and their hardships, as German infantry marched thousands of miles into Soviet territory, only to endure catastrophic losses in brutal winter conditions. Despite these challenges, they remained the foundation of Germany’s military might until the Reich’s collapse in 1945.

This minifigure captures the essence of the ordinary German soldier — disciplined, well-trained, and central to the Wehrmacht’s campaigns. It is a detailed tribute to the men whose experiences, whether as aggressors or as victims of circumstance, defined the vast scope of World War II combat.

Includes 1 minifigure disassembled and 1 plastic replica rifle.

Pcs: 9

Age rating: 14+