The Marksmanship Lanyard (Schützenschnur) of the Wehrmacht represented a significant military award bestowed upon soldiers for exceptional shooting performance. The attachment plate for the 1st Class Infantry Marksmanship Lanyard described here represents a characteristic element of the German military awards system during World War II.

The Marksmanship Lanyard was introduced on July 11, 1936 by the Reich War Ministry and regulated through Army Regulation (HV) 36, No. 765. This award was designed to promote marksmanship skills and thereby enhance the combat effectiveness of the Wehrmacht. The system was divided into different grades, with the 1st Class representing the lowest award level, followed by the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Classes, as well as special grades for sharpshooters.

The Infantry Marksmanship Lanyard differed from versions of other branches through specific design characteristics. The attachment plate, which was affixed to the braided cord, typically consisted of zinc or other white metal alloys, a result of wartime material shortages. In the early phase, versions made of aluminum were also produced.

The technical construction with four prongs on the reverse side was characteristic for attaching the plate to the braided cord. These prongs were inserted through the cord and bent over on the back to ensure a secure connection. The craftsmanship quality and attachment method varied depending on the manufacturer and production period.

The 1st Class Marksmanship Lanyard was awarded for achieving a specific score when shooting with infantry weapons. Soldiers had to demonstrate their shooting proficiency in various disciplines, including target shooting at different ranges and under different conditions. The exact requirements were detailed in the Wehrmacht's shooting regulations.

The wearing of the Marksmanship Lanyard was precisely regulated. It was worn on the right sleeve of the uniform, with the attachment plate positioned on the shoulder and the braided cord passed under the arm and fastened with a button. The color of the cord for infantry was silver-gray, distinguishing it from other branches. Artillery wore a red cord, for example, while armored troops wore pink.

The design of the attachment plate typically displayed military symbolism, often decorated with oak leaves and other traditional German military motifs. The specific design could vary slightly depending on the manufacturer but remained within prescribed guidelines.

During the course of the war, production and awarding of Marksmanship Lanyards became increasingly difficult. Material shortages led to simplifications in manufacturing, and toward the end of the war, awarding was partially discontinued. Nevertheless, the Marksmanship Lanyard remained a coveted symbol of military competence.

From a collector's perspective, such attachment plates are sought-after military historical objects today. The stated condition 2 indicates a well-preserved piece with minor signs of use, which is remarkable for an object over 80 years old. The complete preservation of all four prongs is an important feature for authenticity and condition.

The Marksmanship Lanyard is today an important testimony to military history and the awards practice of the Wehrmacht. It documents the importance placed on military training and particularly on shooting proficiency. For historical research, such objects offer valuable insights into the organizational structure, material usage, and military culture of the era.