WW2 German Luftwaffe Engineer Corps Officers Uniform for a Major

Description: A very rare Double-breasted over - coat for the extremely scarce Luftwaffe corps of Engineers, which numbered roughly 2700 men, this specific rank numbered only 907 men from its inception. In gray wool with inset flap pockets, half belt at the back, aluminum buttons. Extremely fine quality, the material rivals pieces from top Luxury brands. Silver embroidered collar patches of a Fl. Stabsingenieur - Major engineer on a pink wool background. Inner lining made of gray artificial silk. Minor catches in some fabric in a couple spots, condition commensurate with age. Name label from Petschke, Berlin, dated "Oct. 1938". Every single button is individually RZM Marked and maker marked to Assman and Sohne. COLLAR TABS INFO: Attached are its original pair of meticulously hand-embroidered Luftwaffe officer's collar tabs, known as 'Kragenspiegel für Offiziere der Luftwaffe.' These insignia are crafted in bright silver-colored braid set against a vivid pink ('rosaroter') background, specifically designated for an engineer-officer of the rank 'Flieger-Stabsingenieur,' which is comparable to the rank of Major. The overall condition is excellent, indicating minimal usage, having been attached to the tunic only once at its inception. These tabs are fashioned from smooth, moleskin-type wool, showcasing extraordinary detail and craftsmanship. Despite minimal aging, preserved in almost a mint state. Original silvered border threading intact on both patches. It is noteworthy that these pink-colored Luftwaffe tabs, intended for commissioned members of the 'Ingenieurkorps der Luftwaffe,' are rare and highly sought after just on their own, let alone on the original coat. This pair is an exceptional example of its kind, representing a 'Flieger-Stabsingenieur,' and stands as a truly remarkable and scarce collectible piece that would be difficult to surpass in quality. LUFTWAFFE CORPS OF ENGINEERS: By decree of the Führer and Reich Chancellery on April 20, 1935, the "Corps of Engineers of the Luftwaffe" was established. Further legislation on October 18, 1935, determined that members of this newly formed corps were not classified as soldiers but as "members of the Luftwaffe," holding a status similar to that of Officials. This career field was exclusively for officers. Entry Requirements The requirements for entry into the Corps of Engineers evolved over time, but the fundamental prerequisite was an engineering degree from a university or college. A university degree, roughly equivalent to a master's degree, qualified candidates for the rank of Fl. Hauptingenieur, while a basic four-year bachelor's degree qualified them for the rank of Fl. Ingenieur. Uniform and Insignia Members of the Corps of Engineers wore the standard Luftwaffe-style uniform. The insignia included: Tabs: Rose pink, with rank indicated by a wreath and propeller blades, instead of the gulls used in the regular Luftwaffe.Boards: Standard style with pink waffenfarbe.Reserve members were distinguished by a blue secondary piping on the tabs and shoulder boards. The specific roles and purposes of this formation are not detailed in reference works by Angolia or Davis. It remains unclear whether they were involved in aircraft design, airbase construction, or other engineering tasks. Corps of Engineer Officers An order dated May 11, 1940, established the "Corps of Engineer Officers," with the intention of eventually disbanding the original Corps of Engineers. However, due to numerous delays, the Corps of Engineers was never disbanded, and both entities co-existed throughout the war. The primary difference between the two services was the collar tabs: Tabs for Corps of Engineer Officers: Rose pink, with rank indicated by a wreath and gulls, similar to regular Luftwaffe officers.Wartime Members of the Corps of Engineers During wartime, this was not a career area but consisted of civilian engineers brought into Luftwaffe service to fill specific billets. These individuals were assigned ranks based on their age, experience, and education but were not promotable once a rank was assigned. Starting on January 15, 1943, wartime members wore the same uniforms as those in the Corps of Engineers. However, their insignia differed as follows: Tabs: Rose pink, similar to the Corps of Engineer tabs. The rank was indicated solely by the embroidered wreath, without the use of propellers or gulls. DUTIES OF LUFTWAFFE ENGINEER CORPS - Stabsingenieur They were experts within the Flight-Device-Group. Their responsibilities included testing experimental planes, propellers, devices, and more. They contributed to the development of Guidelines for Master-Tests, focusing on testing flight characteristics while also creating the necessary measuring instruments. As a test pilot, they participated in testing German seaplanes, airships, and various special-purpose planes, including fighter planes, catapult planes, and planes designated for carriers. They ensured the technical accuracy and scientific documentation of testing reports.

Price: 1800 CAD

Location: Concord, Ontario

End Time: 2024-09-26T19:37:45.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A CAD