Soldat, Landsturm, 1939.jpg

One of the virtues of the Swiss Army system was that whilst only a relatively small number of men were under arms at any one time, when the situation arose large numbers of reserves could be called out quickly to bolster the defences.

In 1939 parts of Europe war was declared and as in 1914 the Swiss authorities called out their reserves to maintain the security of their borders. This included a number of overage men in the Landsturm who could be used for local and key point security.

This soldier wears the standard issue helmet, tunic and trousers. The tunic is devoid of the insignia you would see if he belonged to an active unit. His only ‘badge’ being the armband that showed he was on official business.

His equipment is limited to belt order with ammunition pouches and either a gasmask or haversack slung over the right shoulder. He is armed with a 7.5mm Infanteriegewehr K11.

As the war progressed and the situation stabilised, the need for the older soldiers diminished and they returned to their homes and jobs.