2018.002.048 [Tag, Identification]

This is a half-oval-shaped German army identification tag made of a dark gray metal. There are two holes punched near the top of the tag above the inscription, where a cord would have been run to be carried around a soldier's neck. The tag is broken in half at the equator, leaving only the top half intact. The inscription on the front of the tag reads, "RUDOLF ARETZ - KOLN - 18.7.97. 2 FRS. BATL. J.R.70. 4.K.1536." This inscription would seem to indicate that the tag belonged to a soldier named Rudolf Aretz, who was from Koln, Germany; he was born on July 18, 1897; he was part of the 2nd FRS (reserves?) Battalion. The inscription on the rear face of the tag reads, "R.J.R.70. 4.K.NR. 652 - R.J.R.70. 1.K. NR. 411." There is little to no patina on either face of the tag. The fact that the tag was torn in half and only one half remains indicates that Rudolf Aretz was killed in battle during his service. This content can be used with the following resources: SS.6.23: Compare Iowa to World This content can be used to inspire analytical comparisons between military service for Iowa servicemen to the military service of Germans during the First World War. For any use other than instructinal resources, please check with the organization that owns this item for any copyright restrictions.