Key Takeaways
- A dive into our collection reveals no fewer than 15 examples of the Kriegsverdienstkreuz, or War Merit Cross, awarded to both soldiers and civilians for exceptional service unrelated to combat.
- The blood-red ribbon attached to this War Merit Cross comes from the Ostmedaille, known as the Eastern Medal, awarded to German servicemen who fought in the invasion of the Soviet Union during the winter of 1941-42.
- Many soldiers, sailors, and fliers grabbed small fragments of the vanquished as souvenirs to take home, reflecting the psychology of war trophies.
The Mystery Behind a Unique Military Ribbon
During World War II, American servicemen often brought back German medals and pins as souvenirs of their time overseas. One such artifact, the Kriegsverdienstkreuz or War Merit Cross, was a state decoration awarded for exceptional service unrelated to combat. This cross is just one example of the unique military ribbons and medals that found their way into the hands of U.S. troops returning home.
The Story of First Lieutenant Robert W. Wicks
First Lieutenant Robert W. Wicks, a B-24 bombardier, was shot down over Slovakia in December 1944. Saved by a local family who hid him on their farm for months, Wicks eventually made his way back home after the war. It is believed that he may have acquired the War Merit Cross with the unique ribbon during his time in Europe, but the exact origins of this unusual piece remain a mystery.
The Significance of the Ostmedaille Ribbon
The ribbon attached to the War Merit Cross is not a standard issue. It actually comes from the Ostmedaille, or Eastern Medal, awarded to German soldiers who fought in the invasion of the Soviet Union during the harsh winter of 1941-42. This ribbon adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already unique military artifact.
The Psychology of War Trophies
Many soldiers, sailors, and fliers during World War II were known to collect small fragments or souvenirs from the enemies they faced in battle. These trophies served as physical reminders of their experiences and the challenges they overcame. The act of taking home a piece of the vanquished enemy was a way for these servicemen to hold onto a piece of history and reflect on their wartime experiences.
While the exact story behind the unique combination of the War Merit Cross and Ostmedaille ribbon may never be fully known, it serves as a fascinating reminder of the personal connections and experiences that soldiers brought back from the battlefield. Each artifact tells a story, and in the case of Lieutenant Wicks, the mystery of his wartime memento adds an intriguing layer to his already remarkable tale.