German Elite Generals Visor cap (Tropical)

Description

If you are wondering whose uniform that is displayed with the tropical Schirmütz, it’s the uniform of Brigadefuhrer Sylvester Stadler, Commander of the elite Panzer division Hohenstaufen. Stadler was one of only 98 men of 19 million who served in the Wehrmacht who earned both the Knights Cross and the close combat badge in gold. (issued for 50 days of close combat). Most General Officers don’t survive that kind of time in the trenches. Stadler went on to earn the OakLeaves to the Knights Cross and the Swords, although due to issuance in the last months of the war, the Swords were not officially recognized.
Officers in the Wehrmacht generally tailored their headgear to their personal tastes. Stadler served in the Balkans and France as well as along the entire Eastern Front. Summers along the Adriatic Coast, the Mediterranean and in France are pretty toasty. Hence the tropical kit. This cap and one more like it were produced for a publishers photo shoot on Elite Commanders. Unlikely you’ll see another as these two were custom produced on contract exclusively for Beyond Courage.
We have produced quality WW2 kit for over 50 years. Visit our site for other unique, quality collectibles.
This is a rare one although not as rare as the Samurai helmet for my hound Zoobee, also known as ZooBanzai!