The German Imperial Army in the World War - Structure and Organization - Fortification Troops

As early as mobilization, so-called fortification troops were planned. These were to carry out the necessary earthworks in the course of strengthening the fortresses.

Armierung meant the conversion of a fortress from a peacetime to a wartime state.

These units were staffed by former officers and older non-commissioned officers. In addition to an adjutant, an accounting officer and a company sergeant major, there was also medical service and other subordinate personnel.

The demand for such troops was very great and became even greater with the transition to positional warfare. Therefore this branch was further expanded, e.g. by assigning men liable for the Landsturm — but only those fit for work.

Their tasks were the creation or improvement of existing road networks and the construction of reserve positions outside enemy fire.

During the war 217 such battalions were raised, namely Fortification Battalions No. 1–200 and the Bavarian Fortification Battalions No. 1–19.

The respective establishment strength was 3 officers and 520 men.

The fortification battalions initially wore the colored peacetime uniform with — since 1915 — an armband with black lettering.

However, Litewken were often worn instead of the dark-blue tunic, which were also frequently seen in the Landsturm, or only the drill uniform was worn.

As of 31.10.1915 field-gray uniforms were ordered for the Prussian fortification battalions; Bavaria, Saxony and Württemberg followed.

A band covered the cap trim on the visor cap. It was introduced in 1916 for fortification battalions working well forward.

The actual fortification soldiers remained unarmed; only the supervisory personnel were armed.

In the front-line area, however, this was handled differently.