Volkssturm carrying ammunition to the front. 1/35 Master Box-35182

The Volkssturm was a German militia formed in the last months of World War II, in October 1944, by order of Adolf Hitler. Its creation responded to the critical military situation of the Third Reich, which faced enemy advances on multiple fronts and lacked sufficient regular soldiers.

Composed mainly of men between the ages of 16 and 60 unfit for regular military service, the Volkssturm included veterans, youths, civilian workers, and those with limited or no training. They were often equipped with obsolete or captured weaponry, such as old Mauser rifles, Panzerfaust and insufficient ammunition.

Although initially presented as a manifestation of the German patriotic spirit, it actually reflected the desperation of the Nazi regime. Volkssturm units fought in the defense of cities such as Berlin and Königsberg, but their results were limited due to lack of experience and resources. It was Hitler’s last failed attempt to resist defeat.