Plundering Enemy Dead: Valuables and War Souvenirs in World War II

During World War II, the taking of valuables and souvenirs from the enemy dead was prevalent on all sides. This practice, which involved scavenging resources from fallen or captured enemies, notably value and terms in the context of severely limited wartime resources, presents a somber glimpse into the universality of human behavior amidst catastrophic conflict.

Valuables from Enemy Dead

Clear examples of resource scarcity drove soldiers to take necessary items from the fallen. For instance, the German assault rifle featured in Fury (portrayed by Brad Pitt) was highly sought after, with good equipment being valued and quickly requisitioned by winning forces. Beyond merely seeking functional equipment, there was also a market for personal items and instruments of power, such as Luger pistols, SS daggers, and Japanese samurai swords.

Japanese Plundering

In the case of the Japanese, there was a particular demand for weapons and ceremonial items. Dead Japanese soldiers were often stripped of their wooden swords ("katana") and other distinctive samurai accessories. This practice was more characteristic of their desire to capture and destroy the sacred rather than obtaining functional firearms.

Souvenirs and Wreckage

Both German and Japanese troops were known for taking watches and similar valuables from their fallen or captured enemies. This behavior extended beyond practical items to include badges and uniform parts, which often carried significant sentimental or symbolic value. Soviet soldiers, coming from a country with scarcity in terms of consumer goods, were reportedly prone to taking watches, which were among the most desirable types of war souvenirs.

While souvenirs from enemy dead were commonly sought, it is important to note that direct appropriation of cash was less frequent. Given the different currencies used by various countries, finding a viable market for cash from enemy dead was challenging. Thus, while soldiers might take watches or medals, the practicality and usability of such items were much more relevant than the financial value of the currency.

Beyond Valuables: A Broader Perspective

It is worth considering that such practices were not unique to any one side. All armies, despite their varying origins and cultures, exhibited similar behaviors driven by the scarcity of resources and the psychological need for acquisition during wartime. This behavior reflects the complex interplay of survival, pride, and tribalism that often define conflict.

One aspect of this behavior is the psychological toll on soldiers who found themselves in such situations. The act of removing items from the dead, even if driven by necessity, can be ethically and morally fraught. Soldiers may experience guilt, confusion, or a mixture of emotions when faced with the decision to take personal items from the dead.

Conclusion

In summary, the taking of valuables from the fallen in World War II was a widespread phenomenon across all sides. This behavior was rooted in the necessity of obtaining resources and the psychological appeal of conquering and taking what was once the enemy's. While the act of plundering itself cannot be justified by the atrocities that occurred during the war, it does provide an insight into the human aspects of conflict.

The practice of acquiring souvenirs from enemy dead serves as a stark reminder of the murky depths to which soldiers would descend during wartime, reflecting both the brutal necessities of survival and the enduring human need for connection and belonging.