BACKGROUND: Although each division in the German army of WWII had divisional support units which included a medical unit that normally consisted of two companies, a field hospital and two ambulance platoons there was also an extensive organization of higher echelon army first-aid stations and hospitals. Wounded personnel would first be moved to the units first-aid station for immediate evaluation and care and if the wounds were of a severe nature the individual would then be transferred to the regimental or divisional first-aid stations. If the wounds were very serious the individual would then be sent to an army hospital in the rear area. Very severely wounded personnel that would require a long time for recuperation would be evacuated to a civilian hospital near his home if possible. Generally all levels of military units preferred to treat their own wounded as evacuation to a rear army or civilian hospital could result in the individual being assigned to a different unit when released. The success of the German military’s medical organization can be judged on the fact that those evacuated to a hospital had a 98.5% chance of recovery. When hospitalized, personnel would turn in all their equipment and clothing to the hospital administration who would issue a return chit and supply a hospital "uniform" that consisted of a jacket, pants and slippers.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Woven cotton/rayon blend construction, convalescent’s issue hospital tunic with an HBT, (Herring Bone Twill), weave. The tunic have a distinctive vertical striped pattern consisting of a fine light and dark blue stripe alternating with a wider white stripe. The tunic features a vertical, four button front closure. The tunic has a lower hip, patch pocket to each side of the front closure. The tunic has straight cut, non-adjustable sleeve cuffs. The reverse of the tunic has a central, horizontal, half-waist belt. The tunic is in overall very good condition with minimal age and usage toning. Buttons all look to be period replaced. The tunic is roughly size 32" chest. Nice worn and used example showing the expected age and wear and a few expected repairs.