The military symbols in this classified book appeared on maps, documents, tables of organisation and orders of battle, as well as on military vehicles. The symbols illustrated replaced those in use up until May 1943, although some of the former symbols remained in use until the end of WWII. This is an essential core reference for the study of World War 2 German photographs, maps, charts, vehicles and equipment.

The German armed forces used military symbols extensively on maps, in tables of organisation (war establishments), and on direction and location signposts in combat zones. Military symbols will also be seen on vehicles and equipment, with or without the divisional emblem.