The military ID card
The Wehrpass (military pass) was an identification document for conscripts in Germany until 1918. It was issued by the military registration offices, or in the Federal Republic of Germany by the district military recruitment offices, and contained the conscript's personal data and a record of his or her service history.
What was entered in the military record
The military record contained the soldier's personal data: name, date of birth, place of birth, religion, height, parents' names, etc. It documented the holder's military career, promotions, units, awards, courses and training, injuries, etc. Furthermore, equipment and clothing received, and in individual cases, weapons and provisions, were also recorded.
Where was the military ID card kept?
The military ID card was issued to the conscript after the medical examination. Upon enlistment, the military ID card was confiscated and the soldier received his Sold bookThe military record remained with the soldier's home unit and was maintained there. In the event of death, it was handed over to the next of kin.
In the Bundeswehr, until conscription was abolished, soldiers received a military ID card instead of a paybook.
Value and purchase
The value of a military service record book can only be determined on a case-by-case basis. It varies as much as the holders themselves. Besides its condition and completeness, it depends significantly on the entries, particularly the unit/branch of service, rank, and any decorations awarded. Due to their large number, military service record books are generally not particularly valuable. However, individual book books, especially those belonging to recipients of the Knight's Cross , can be worth well over €1.000.
