3.Schwdr./Aufkl.Abt.31 Erkennungsmarke

The dog tag or 'Erkennungsmarke' shows normal signs of wear. Aufklärungs Abteilung 31 was formed in August 1939 and was part of the 31.Infanterie-Division. It saw its first combat during the invasion of the Low countries (Belgium). It fought its way in France where it stayed till September 1940 and was then moved to Poland. Here it preparred for the invasion of Russia. It saw combat in areas like Minsk,Smolensk,Tula,Juchnow,Gomel,Bobruisk and Mogilew where it was destroyed in June 1944. Remains of the division where used to for the 31.Grenadier-Division in Lettland that same month. In October it was renamed in to the 31.Volks-Grenadier-Division. It fought in Kurland, Thorn and Hela.
The 'O' on the tag stands for the bloodtype of the soldier. The 3.Schwere Aufklärungs Abteilung 31 consisted of;
1 Panzerspähzug (3 PzSpWgn)
1 Pz.Abw.Zug (mot - 3 PAK 3,7cm)
1 Kav.Geschütz-Zug (mot - 2 7,5cm le IG18)