SS-Feldgendarmerie Uniform Set

Perhaps less well known than the Heer Feldgendarmerie, the Feldgendarmerie of the Waffen-SS was a much smaller establishment than its Wehrmacht counterparts, but its role was identical and fulfilled identical purposes. Like the Wehrmacht, the SS-Feldgendarmerie was more than likely a former civil policeman or experienced combat NCO with around 4 years of service.

Each Field Division of the Waffen-SS had its own Feldgendarmerie unit. They were used primarily to maintain order, discipline, and security within their own lines, and therefore, their areas of responsibility were more restricted than those of the Heer Feldgendarmerie units. The Waffen-SS Feldgendarmerie focused on “Taking care of their own” and left most rear-line issues to the Heer Feldgendarmerie to the “Kettenhunde”.

Heer Feldgendarmerie came to be called the “Kettenhunde” (Chained Dogs) due to the Gorget that was hung by a chain they wore while on duty. The common soldier regarded them with fear and didn’t want any trouble with them. Yet, the SS-Feldgendarmerie had a bit more sinister nickname given to them, the “Kopfjager” of Headhunters, an obvious reference the the “Death’s Head” SS Skull insignia, embroidered to the front of their caps. But there was a deeper meaning too, and that lay in their reputation as efficient military policemen and strict enforcers of military law according to the SS.

Traffic control. maintaining military order and discipline, and escorting prisoners of war. The collection and redirection of military stragglers, the prevention of looting, supervision and control of the civilian populace in occupied areas, disarming of the civilians, checking of papers and documents, the capturing of enemy soldiers, and the searching of documents, maps, etc. They also checked the papers of soldiers on leave, making sure they were not AWOL, or in any trouble, or if in transit, to get to their destination. And disposing of enemy propaganda leaflets they were prohibited, and if found on someone, they were to be punished. They searched for downed airmen. They provided street patrols of the occupied areas, worked in the prevention of sabotage, controlled evacuees during retreats, they had security-nature duties, in cooperation with the Geheime Feldpolizei (counterespionage, apprehending deserters, border control, and anti-partisan duties).

The Feldgendarmerie’s authority allowed them to pass through secured areas, guard blocks, guard posts, etc. They conducted searches of both personnel and property whenever they deemed it necessary. When conducting searches, they could and did commandeer assistance from other military personnel. In the event of a dispute, the Feldgendarmerie held superior rank over any other soldier of a similar grade or rank of any other branch of the service.