Sterbebilder, Remembrance Card, Gefr. Thomas Gröbner, Artillerie-Regiment 43, Heer, 1940

Rare genuine WWII German remembrance card, of the Sterbebilder type.

The tradition of editing a 'death card' in memory of a serviceman who gave his life for his country dates back to the Great War; just a few dozen of copies were generally printed by the family, being intended for relatives and close friends of the deceased only. Most remembrance cards feature a portrait and a prayer, or any other type of religous or patriotic reference.

Apart from the latter's name and age, the document indicates his branch of service as well as the date of his death and the area where the action took place. For security reasons, the unit and exact location were rarely disclosed. 

The present card is dedicated to the memory of some Gefreiter Thomas Gröbner, serving in an Artillerie-Regiment of the Heer, who died accidentally on October 27, 1940 in the vicinity of Lille, Northern France, at 22 years of age. The reverse is adorned with a holy picture showing Saint Michael the Archangel.

Thomas Gröbner was born on October 1st, 1919 in Niederbrunn, Bavaria and went on to serve with 1. Batterie of Artillerie-Regiment 43. He passed away in Comines, Nord département and was buried in the German Military Cemetery at Bourdon, Somme département (block 5, row 17, grave 651).

https://fr.findagrave.com/memorial/163537924/thomas-gr%C3%B6bner

Very good overall condition.

Format: 2.28in x 4in.

Illustration document available in digital format only.