Dog tags (ID tags)
The ID tag, colloquially also called dog tags, consists of two metal tags used to identify the wearer. The information stamped on them usually includes a personal identification number, blood type and religious affiliation.
Origin, purpose and use of dog tags
There really isn’t much you absolutely have to observe here. It is of course important to treat nature with care and behave quietly so as not to frighten the animals. Open fires and wild camping with a tent are an absolute taboo in the forest.
How dog tags are made:
Key features and differences in identification tags
One key difference in dog tags becomes apparent when comparing German and US examples. In Germany, a two-part tag with a predetermined breaking point is used, whereas the American version consists of two separate tags worn on a ball chain up to 70 cm long.
ASMC offers a wide range of standard and historical ID tags. Which tag you choose naturally depends primarily on your personal taste. In addition, there are a number of tags with special engravings. ID tags with custom text can also be made on request.
The materials from which our ID tags are made are robust and corrosion-resistant. A matching chain is already included with many ID tags. In addition, our range also includes blood group markers in a wide variety of designs. Unlike normal ID tags, these contain only the wearer’s blood group as information, allowing medics to respond more quickly with a blood transfusion in an emergency.
Further information on dog tags
The first ID tags did not originate in the USA, as is often assumed, but in Germany. Introduced by the Prussian King Wilhelm I, they were first used during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/1871. At the beginning, these were in part self-made tags. A nationwide introduction then took place during World War I. In view of the massive battles of attrition, their necessity was clearly confirmed. To this day, the remains of soldiers are still being found on former battlefields and can be identified on the basis of their ID tags.
Questions: Dog tags
What information is stamped on Bundeswehr dog tags?
German ID tags are divided into 10 fields per half, of which seven are currently filled with information about the wearer. The individual fields on the front contain gender, nationality (usually DEU), religion (e.g. EK or RK) and a personal identification number. The personal identification number consists of date of birth, initial of the surname, code number of the district military replacement office and a serial number including check digit. On the reverse side you will find blood group, Rhesus factor and full protection (vaccination record).
Why are some dog tags issued in pairs?
The ID tags of the US military are particularly well known for always being issued in pairs. Compared to the divisible tags with a predetermined breaking point used by other nations, this variant is more the exception than the rule. One part of the tag always remains with the fallen soldier for later identification, while the second is removed for documentation.
