One of my favorite genre's of collecting is the Afrikakorps. In fact, I think everyone likes Afrikakorps. Here is a Luftwaffe Tropical uniform for a soldier in the Flakwaffe in Afrika. This set is complete with tunic, second model Luftwaffe pants, hat, boots, and belt. Many collectors call the pants "Fallshirmjager pants", however, though the Fallshirmjager did wear these pants, they were not exclusive to those troops. Luftwaffe soldiers from all branches wore these pants. The reason I call these "second model" is due to the exposed button on the thigh pocket flap. This uniform group also has a field made Luftwaffe tropical ball cap, web belt and standard Luftwaffe continental buckle. The tunic features a set of light weight shoulder boards piped in red for Flak/Artilerie troops. The light weight boards are commonly referred to as "shirt" boards, however, supply shortages caused many troops to use whatever boards were available. There was a one set of award loops on this tunic when I purchased it. Perfect for the Luftwaffe Flak badge.
This photo features the reverse of the uniform grouping with tropical web belt and matching number bayonet with tropical web frog.
The eagle is original to the uniform. (Many tunics have reapplied eagles....)
A close up shot of the Luftwaffe Tropical M43 Ball Cap. Most Luftwaffe tropical ball caps are field made as the most commonly issued piece of head gear for the Luftwaffe in the tropics was the overseas cap. However, the soldiers preferred the M43 style cap of the Heer. Though the Luftwaffe did produce a factory issued hat, many ball caps are field made. This features an overseas hat eagle and roundel on tropical material.
A close up of the Flak piped shirt boards.
Here is a shot of my Luftwaffe tropical boots. These boots were the Tall boots with wraparound canvas that have been cut down to make low quarters out of. Many Luftwaffe troops abhorred the tall boots as they were quite cumbersome to put on and take off. I have replaced the laces in them.
A shot of the underside of the boots detailing the hobnails that have been put on by the unit cobbler.
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