Minifigure – German Anti-Aircraft Artillery Soldier (Winter) WWII (LEGO Compatible)

The Figure: WWII German Anti-Aircraft Artillery Soldier (Winter)

This historical toy minifigure represents an enlisted soldier (O/Rs – Other Ranks) of the German military during World War II, specifically assigned to an Anti-Aircraft Artillery (Flak) unit. He is depicted in full winter gear, likely fighting on the Eastern Front or during the harsh winters of the European campaign (e.g., Battle of the Bulge).

• Uniform (The M1935 Greatcoat):

  • He wears the heavy wool M1935 Greatcoat (Tuchmantel). This double-breasted overcoat was the standard winter issue for German troops.

  • Collar Tabs: The collar features Red Collar Patches. In the German Wehrmacht and Luftwaffe ground forces, Red was the Waffenfarbe (Branch of Service color) for Artillery and Anti-Aircraft troops. This aligns perfectly with the text on the image describing him as “Anti-Aircraft Artillery”.

  • Weathering: The bottom of the coat and the legs feature detailed “Snow and Mud” prints, simulating the dirty, wet conditions of winter warfare.

• Headgear:

  • He wears the standard steel Stahlhelm in a dark grey finish, essential for shrapnel protection while manning Flak guns.

• Equipment:

  • Webbing: He wears a brown leather belt with the standard buckle (likely Gott Mit Uns design, though too small to see in detail).

  • Weaponry: A “Potato Masher” Stick Grenade (Stielhandgranate) is tucked into his belt, indicating he is prepared for ground defense as well.

  • Backpack: The rear view shows a detailed Tornister (backpack) with a mess kit strapped to it, depicting a soldier on the march or in the field.

• Face: The face print shows a dirty, battle-weary expression with stubble and grime, capturing the exhaustion of the frontline soldier.

Historical Background: German Flak (Flugabwehrkanone) crews were vital for defending cities and field units from Allied bombers. As the war progressed, especially in the winter campaigns of Russia (1941-1944), these heavy coats became a soldier’s most prized possession to survive the freezing temperatures. Flak crews were often forced to use their 88mm guns against tanks (ground targets) as the frontlines collapsed, making this figure suitable for combat dioramas.