Minifigure – German Navy Lieutenant (Oberleutnant zur See) (LEGO Compatible)

The Figure: WWII German Navy Lieutenant (Oberleutnant zur See)

This toy minifigure represents a junior commissioned officer of the German Navy (Kriegsmarine) during World War II. Specifically, the text on the image identifies his rank as “Oberleutnant zur See” (Senior Lieutenant at Sea), and he is dressed in the distinctive white summer uniform.

• Uniform (The Summer Dress): He wears the pristine White Service Tunic and Trousers.

  • Historical Context: This all-white uniform was typically worn by officers during the summer months or in tropical theaters (such as the Mediterranean or South Atlantic). It distinguished officers from the enlisted sailors who usually wore white shirts with blue trousers or standard dark blue uniforms.

• Headgear: He wears the Officer’s Peaked Cap (Schirmmütze) with a white top. The cap features the gold Imperial Eagle (Reichsadler) at the top and the Wreath and Cockade below. The white-topped cap was a status symbol often favored by U-boat commanders (like “Das Boot” captains) even when wearing regular battle dress.

• Rank & Insignia:

  • Shoulder Boards: The gold and silver shoulder boards on his tunic identify his rank as an Oberleutnant, equivalent to a Lieutenant (Junior Grade) in the US Navy.

  • Breast Eagle: The gold Kriegsmarine Eagle is printed on his right breast.

• Decorations (Medals):

  • Iron Cross 1st Class: A pin-back cross is visible on his left breast pocket, awarded for significant bravery or battlefield success.

  • War Badge: Below the cross, there is a gold oval badge, likely the Destroyer War Badge or U-Boat War Badge, signifying active service on warships.

  • Ribbon Bar: A colorful ribbon bar sits above the pocket, representing other awards like the Iron Cross 2nd Class or Long Service awards.

• Accessory (The Flag): The figure stands next to a pole flying the German War Ensign (Reichskriegsflagge). It features a red field with a white circle/black Swastika in the center and the Iron Cross in the canton. This flag was flown on all Kriegsmarine vessels during the war.

Historical Background: The Oberleutnant zur See was a critical rank in the Kriegsmarine, often serving as the Watch Officer on a battleship or the Commander of smaller vessels like E-boats or U-boats. The white uniform projects an image of formal naval tradition, contrasting with the grime of submarine warfare. This figure represents an officer attending a dress function or serving in a warm climate zone.