2.Kp./Inf.Ers.Btl.23 EKM (D.Reichsheer marked)

The tag or 'Erkennungsmarke' shows overall normal signs of wear. It belonged to a soldier who was drafted in the 2.Kompanie Infanterie Ersatz Bataillon 23. This unit was formed in late August 1939. It trained and supplied soldiers for Infanterie Regiment 23 which was part of the 11.Infanterie-Division. This division was put into action during the invasion of Poland in September 1939. After Poland it moved west and prepared for the invasion of Belgium and France. It also participated in the invasion of Russia and fought during the war in areas like Wolchow and Leningrad. 

Interesting is the 'DEUTSCHES REICHSHEER' that was stamped on the back of the tag. When the Reichsheer became the Wehrmacht the 'DEUTSCHES REICHSHEER' marking on the back of the erkennungsmarke was dropped. However, it was decided that the stocks of zinc erkennungsmarken should be used first.
The 'O' on both parts of the tag stands for the soldier's bloodtype