Minifigure – German Waffen-SS Lieutenant SS-Obersturmführer from World War II (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a toy minifigure representing a German Waffen-SS Lieutenant, historically known by the specific rank of SS-Obersturmführer.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the figure and its historical context:

The Figure: Waffen-SS Platoon Commander (Officer) This figure represents a commissioned officer leading a platoon or company in the field. His equipment and insignia distinguish him as a leader rather than a standard infantryman.

• Camouflage Uniform: Like the soldiers under his command, he wears a Camouflage Smock (Tarnjacke) and helmet cover in the Spring Oak Leaf Pattern (Eichenlaubmuster A). However, the printing reveals his officer status: underneath the smock, the collar of his field-grey tunic is visible, displaying the SS sig runes on the right collar tab and his rank pips on the left.

• Decorations: This figure is depicted as a highly decorated veteran. He wears the prestigious Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz) around his neck, a high honor for bravery or successful leadership. On his left breast (printed over the smock pattern), the Iron Cross 1st Class is visible.

• The Weapon: As an officer, he does not carry a rifle. Instead, he is armed with a black Luger P08 Pistol. Officers primarily led and directed fire, using their sidearms only for self-defense in close quarters.

• Gear: He wears a black leather Officer’s Belt with a pistol holster. Unlike the lower ranks seen in this series (who wear ankle boots and canvas gaiters), this officer wears traditional tall Black Jackboots (Marschstiefel), which remained a status symbol for officers even late in the war.

• Facial Features: The face print shows a determined expression, fitting for a frontline commander.

Historical Background: The rank of SS-Obersturmführer was equivalent to a First Lieutenant (or Senior Lieutenant) in the US Army. These officers typically commanded a Platoon (Zug) of about 30 to 40 men, or served as the second-in-command of a Company. In the Waffen-SS, junior officers were expected to lead from the very front lines, sharing the same risks and hardships as their men. The Oak Leaf camouflage shown here was widely used by SS officers during the battles of Normandy (1944) and the Ardennes Offensive.