These were actually the rules of engagement – before anyone ever heard of rules of engagement – for German troops in World War II

1. The German soldier fights chivalrously for the victory of his people; is unworthy of cruelties and unnecessary destruction.

2. The combatant has to be in uniform or must be wearing a special publicized insignia which can be recognized from far away. Fighting in civilian clothes without such an insignia is prohibited.

3. No enemy who surrenders shall be killed – this includes terrorists and spies. They will receive their punishment in due process of law.

4. Prisoners shall not be mistreated or offended. Weapons, plans and documents are to be confiscated. Personal property shall not be taken away from them.

5. Dum-dum ammunition is prohibited. It is also prohibited to modify projectiles to make them into dum-dums.

6. The Red Cross is inviolate. Wounded enemy soldiers are to be treated humanly. Members of the medical corps and chaplains shall not be hindered in the performance of their medical or clerical activities.

7. Civilians are unassailable. The soldier is not allowed to plunder or destroy wantonly. Historical monuments and buildings used for religious services, for art, science and charitable functions are to be respected. Payments in kind and services from the population are only allowed if so ordered by superiors and against compensation.

8. Neutral territory may not be drawn into the war action by walking into it, flying over it or shooting at it.

9. If a German soldier becomes a prisoner of war he must, if asked, state his name and rank. Under no circumstances is he allowed to make statements about the military unit he belongs to and about military, political and economic conditions on the German side. Neither promises nor threats may alter his position.

10. Violations of the above orders are punishable. Violations by the enemy of #1 through #8 are to be reported. Retaliatory actions are only permissible if so ordered by the High Command.

These were printed on the inside cover page of the “soldbuch” or the German soldier’s pay book and identification papers. Several Members have sent this information over the years, but this is the first time we have published them. Thanks to BILL NAPIER (2290-C/LIFE-1992) for giving us the push to include this important piece of information.