Sterbebilder, Remembrance Card, Hauptm. Werner Thiele, Grenadier-Regiment 739, Heer, June 13, 1944, Carentan

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 Hauptmann Werner Thiele, an officer of the Heer commanding an infantry company and the recipient of various awards, including the 1st Class Iron Cross (Eiserne Kreuz 1. Klasse), who was born on February 10, 1914 and killed on June 12, 1944 in Carentan, Normandy, France [sic].

Werner Thiele was born on February 10, 1914 in Bachhagel, Bavaria, Germany. It is likely that he served with Grenadier-Regiment 739, 709. Infanterie-Division, and was actually killed in action on June 13, 1944 around Carentan. He was buried in the German Military Cemetery at Orglandes, Normandy, France (Block 24, Row 4, Grave 141).

https://fr.findagrave.com/memorial/115183105/werner-thiele

Excellent overall condition.

Format: 3in x 47.75in.

Illustration document available in digital format only.