Original Item: One of a Kind. When we first received this lovely signed USGI bring back flag in, we assumed it was an SA Sturmfahne (Storm flag), but we quickly realized that the unit markings were definitely not the SA type. This flag was actually used by an organization that most have probably never heard of, the Reichsbund Deutscher Kleingärtner (the association of small gardeners). It has a green unit marking rectangle in the cantons by the header, which has the following chain stitched text:

The front side reads:

Bezirk II
Kolonie 6

while the rear reads:

Stadtgruppe Nürnberg
der
Kleingärtner e.V.

This translates to "District II, Colony 6, Nuremberg City Group of the Small Gardeners Association". This was an association of individuals who had turned over their gardens, freeholds or allotments for the cultivation of food for the war effort, which was recognized with a pin and membership of the association. The group was part of the larger Reichsbund der Kleingärtner und Kleinsiedler (National federation of allotment gardeners and small home owners), which also involved those who donated the use of their homes to the effort. Definitely a very interesting flag, of a type that we haven't even been able to find!

In form, it does look very much like it was made using a standard German WWII Sturmabteilung (Storm Division) Political "Storm Flag" or Banner (Sturmfahne). It measures 46" x 54", and the hanger side still has all 7 plated metal hanger rings attached to their fabric loops, along with a small spring clip at the top. These would be used to attach the flag to a pole, and hold it in place. It is in very good shape, showing some staining and age toning, but no major damage or wear.

As mentioned, it was signed and brought back by a USGI, and there are various faint messages written on it, the most important of which is:

DONATED BY
FRANKIE PAUSELLI AND
ANTHONY A KUCHAK
HILL STREET
JESSUP PA

We were able to locate information on Frank Pauselli of Jessup, PA, who passed away in 1991, and was a Master Sergeant, as well as Anthony A Kuchak, who was also from Jessup. Both are confirmed Veterans, though it looks like only Pauselli was in the ETO, so the message is probably post war when the flag was donated, probably to a VFW hall or American Legion.

Additionally, there is the following signature, which is definitely a great research opportunity:

LEO C. PALMATIER 48th HIGHLAND CANADIAN ARMY

We assume Frank must have met him overseas, and had him sign the flag before coming home.

Additionally, there are the following interesting messages, some of which could be inside jokes, which are on the flag, the last of which definitely gave us a bit of a laugh.

LAST
REMAINS- OF
H***ER

H***ER IS - A - STINKER

FRANKIE QUIT PLAYING BINGO. 3/13/47

A fantastic piece of USGI bring back militaria, more than ready for further research and display!