This forest green, passenger vehicle plate with white # E-1228 and the imprint, "U.S. Forces Germany," is self-explanatory. After World War II in the divided Germany of 1959, the United States Army no longer remained stationed in Germany as an occupying power, but as a frontline deterrent stationed there to counter the threat posed by the nations of the Warsaw Pact. This prepositioning of forces was a strategic function of the Cold War. These American servicemen were often accompanied by their families. Their private vehicle license plates identified them as part of the US Forces in Germany.
The US forces in Cold War West Germany initially issued passenger vehicle plates which imitated those in the various states of the US where the background color and number were changed annually. The dark or forest green plate was used for the years 1946-1947, 1953, 1949 and 1966. Eventually, the plates acquired a more traditional European appearance.
Provenance: Acquired by purchase.
ZFC Collectible Flag
Sources:
License Plates of Military Forces, United States Forces in Germany, U.S.A. in Germany (1946-1959), 19 May 2012, from: http://www.worldlicenseplates.com/jpglps/FO_GERM_USAX_GI1.jpg
Image Credits:
Zaricor Flag Collection
