Minifigure – Polish Army NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) WWII (LEGO Compatible)

The Figure: WWII Polish Army NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer)

This toy minifigure represents a soldier of the Second Polish Republic during the early stages of World War II, specifically the 1939 Defensive War (Invasion of Poland). The combination of the French-style helmet and unique national insignia clearly identifies him as a Polish defender.

• Headgear: He wears the iconic Wz.15 Adrian Helmet painted in dark military green.

  • Key Feature: The front of the helmet features a painted White Eagle (Orzeł Biały). This is the national coat of arms of Poland and was historically painted on helmets to distinguish Polish troops from others who used the same French-supplied gear.

• Uniform: He is dressed in the standard Polish Khaki Field Uniform (likely the Mundur wz. 36).

  • Collar Tabs: The collar features distinctive Blue Zig-Zag Patches (Patki). In the Polish army, these colored collar tabs identified the soldier’s branch of service; blue typically denoted Infantry or specialized support units.

  • Torso Print: The detailed printing shows leather webbing, a brown belt, and a Pistol Holster on his right hip, which is typical for NCOs, officers, or signalers who carried sidearms instead of rifles.

• Face: The figure has a printed Mustache and wears Glasses. This gives him the appearance of an intellectual, a reservist, or a senior specialist (like a signals officer) rather than a fresh recruit.

• Accessory (The Medal): In his hand, he holds a transparent printed tile depicting a Military Decoration.

  • Detail: The medal features a red ribbon with a white stripe and a silver cross. This closely resembles the Polish Cross of Valour (Krzyż Walecznych) or the Cross of Merit, awarded for bravery in battle.

• Legs: The legs feature a printed pattern that simulates the texture of the wool uniform or perhaps Puttees (leg wrappings) worn with black boots.

Historical Background: When Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, the Polish Army fought with a mix of modern and WWI-era equipment. The Adrian helmet, originally French, was widely used by Polish cavalry, artillery, and some infantry units. The White Eagle symbol was a source of immense national pride. Soldiers like this NCO fought desperately in battles such as the Defense of Warsaw or the Battle of the Bzura, often against overwhelming odds.