December 6-8, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/8/2023
An incredible example of a World War II German vehicle identification flag that is signed by members of the 106th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron. The flag is accompanied by 2 photos of GIs holding what appears to be this very flag. The reverse of 1 of the photos is labled "Kolody and R. Shields". Interestingly, there are names on the flag that match the names on the photo: Jody Kolody, Shamokin, Pennsylvania, and Paul Shields, Litchfield, Illinois. Their names are located at the very bottom of the swastika. Although the photo states "R. Shields" and the name on the flag is "Paul Shields" this may have been a transcription error. Although the flag is marked "PROPERTY OF KENNETH W. SANTEE" it is possible that this is the flag in the photos. There are even some officer's names on the flag, the highest rank being "MAJ DAN P BRIGGS EX. O." The 106th served in the European campaign and was given various mechanized cavalry missions and was later recognized by the French nation with the award of 2 Croix de Guerre. The unit secured a truce from the defending German Army on May 7th, 1945, the day before the German High Command surrendered to the Allies on May 8th, 1945. This is a fantastic example of a captured German flag, being that it is a sought-after vehicle identification flag, signed by members of a notable unit, and accompanied by photographs with 2 of the soldiers who captured the flag. This example would be difficult to upgrade. The flag exhibits scattered stains and small tears but is intact and well-preserved with all names legible. CONDITION: Very good.
Item Dimensions: 7" X 7"