The EKM (Erkennungsmarke) belonging to 2. Ersatz Abteilung, Artillerie Regiment 20 is a fascinating artifact from World War II, offering insight into the structure and organization of the German military during this era.
- 2. Ersatz Abteilung: This indicates the 2nd Replacement Battalion, responsible for training and supplying reinforcements to the main regiment.- A key artillery regiment in the German Wehrmacht, tasked with providing indirect fire support during combat operations.
The Ersatz (replacement) units played a vital role in maintaining the strength of frontline divisions by training new recruits and ensuring they were prepared for deployment. Artillery regiments, such as this one, were essential in delivering firepower and supporting infantry during battles.
An Erkennungsmarke, or dog tag, was issued to each soldier, serving as a form of identification. This particular tag would have been worn by a member of the 2nd Replacement Battalion of Artillery Regiment 20, and it provides a direct connection to the individual soldier and their service within the Wehrmacht.