19th/15th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS (Latvian).

Latvian Waffen-SS Insignia and Uniform Guide

The Latvian Legion, comprising the 15th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS (1st Latvian) and the 19th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS (2nd Latvian), was a key component of the Waffen-SS’s foreign volunteer forces. Formed primarily from ethnic Latvians during the German occupation of Latvia, these units were heavily engaged on the Eastern Front, especially during the bitter defense of the Courland Pocket.

Insignia and Uniforms:

• Collar Tabs: Latvian soldiers of the Waffen-SS wore several variations of collar insignia:
• SS Runes (SS Bolts): The most common and standardized insignia used on the right collar tab. These were identical to those worn by German SS personnel, representing full integration into the Waffen-SS structure.
• Sunburst Design: A unique collar tab featuring a radiant starburst surrounding three stars in a circle, symbolizing Latvian national heritage. This was seen in some early or transitional units and was likely used before full SS standardization.
• Rank Insignia: The left collar tab followed typical Waffen-SS practice and featured the soldier’s rank, from enlisted to officer grades.
• Shield Insignia:
• Latvian Legion members wore a distinctive red-white-red shield on the upper left sleeve. Variants existed:
• One with "LATVIJA" stitched above the shield.
• Plain versions without text, depending on the manufacturer and supply conditions.
• This shield replaced the need for a cuff title, which was commonly used in other foreign Waffen-SS divisions.
• Uniform Style:
• Latvian SS troops wore standard Waffen-SS field-grey uniforms with black or greenish insignia.
• As the war progressed and material shortages intensified, late-war Latvian units often received mixed equipment and uniforms, sometimes incorporating German Army items.

The Latvian Legion’s insignia emphasized both their Waffen-SS allegiance and their national identity. Despite political controversy, their symbolism reflects a unique blend of imposed affiliation and cultural distinction within the structure of Nazi Germany’s military apparatus.