The following intelligence report on the German salvage of captured supplies and equipment was originally published in Tactical and Technical Trends, No. 18, Feb. 11, 1943. [DISCLAIMER: The following text is taken from the U.S. War Department publication Tactical and Technical Trends. As with all wartime intelligence information, data may be incomplete or inaccurate. No attempt has been made to update or correct the text. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of the website.]

GERMAN SALVAGE OF CAPTURED MATERIAL The importance of captured material in the German supply system is emphasized by Field Marshal Rommel in an army order issued to his troops. The order states that the shortage of raw materials and supplies in Africa makes it necessary to take every opportunity of seizing enemy equipment and supplies. Units may take with them only such amounts of captured material as will not impair their operational readiness; all other booty is dealt with by a special Salvage Section (Beuteberge-Abteilung) of Panzer Army Headquarters. A guard is to be left over all dumps and stocks and Headquarters is to be informed of their location'. The Salvage Section will make arrangements for the security and removal of all dumps and will provide technical personnel and transport. It is to be in direct communication with the forward troops, and will include a salvage platoon from Air Headquarters. Captured supplies are to be marked in light blue paint with the words "Tedesco," Italian for "German" and Erfasste Beute (captured booty). Strong disciplinary action is taken in the event of any misuse or destruction of salvage.

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