A collection belonging to Werner Meining of the 1st Company of Pionier Battalion 655, consisting of 1) An Iron Cross 1939 Second Class (Eisernes Kreuz 1939 2. Klasse). A cross pattée of multi-piece construction with a blackened iron core (magnetic) within a ribbed border; on loop for suspension - marked “13” for “Gustav Brehmer, Markneukirchen”; with its period original ribbon; the obverse with a raised central mobile swastika with the re-institution date “1939” in raised numbering on the lower arm; the reverse with the original institution date “1813” in raised numbering on the lower arm; measuring 44.18 mm (w) x 44.20 mm (h); weighing 17.9 grams.
2) An identification tag; constructed of aluminum; with “3./Pi.Ers.14 918 0” stamped on both sides of the triple slotted disc; with three drill holes; suspended from its original strap; measuring 70 mm (w) x 50 mm (h).
3) The Soldbuch is dated to April 14, 1942. Notable entries include: on page 8c it is stated that Meinig received a bicycle (Fahrrad) as part of his equipment; Meinig was deemed eligible to receive the Führer’s gift on February 13, 1944. Additional notes can be found in the back pocket of the Soldbuch. One is dated to June 28, 1948, a doctor’s note stating that Meinig is war-disabled due to the loss of an eye. It measures 104 mm x 43 mm.
The collection also includes extensive research on Meinig’s unit.
Footnote: Werner Meinig was born on December 7, 1923 in Burgstädt near Chemnitz (eastern Germany). He presumably joined the army in 1942 and received basic training in the 3rd Company of Pionier Replacement Battalion 14 in Weißenfels. Meinig joined the 1st Company of Pionier Battalion 655 at an unknown date. He was promoted to Oberpionier (Senior Sapper) on January 1, 1943, and to Gefreiter (Lance Corporal) on April 1 of the same year. On November 20, 1943 he received the Iron Cross 2nd Class, and on May 18, 1944 the General Assault Badge. Meinig received his final promotion on August 1, 1944, being made Obergefreiter (Corporal). That same month, he was wounded, hit in the face by an unknown projectile, piercing his jaw, nose, and eye socket, resulting in a broken jaw and the loss of an eye. He received the Wound Badge in Black on August 26, however it is stated that he was admitted to hospital on August 27, where he stayed until September 8. Meinig was wounded due to enemy action again on September 15 with no further details given, being released from hospital on October 27, returning to his unit, being deemed partially fit for service. No further information is given, except that the 1948 doctor’s note proves that Meinig survived the war.