WWII Soldier Remains and Motorcycle Unearthed by Low Danube Water Levels

What Happened

Low water levels in the Danube River in Budapest, attributed to an intense drought, have led to the discovery of significant World War II artifacts. These include the remains of two German soldiers, their identification tags, and a largely intact DKW NZ 350-1 motorcycle.

The finds were made on August 2, with a passerby reporting part of the motorcycle emerging from rocks on the riverbank. Anti-tank mines were also found, prompting the temporary closure of the riverbank for a bomb disposal unit to address the hazard.

Why It Matters

The discovery offers a potential path for families to finally learn the fates of their ancestors, who died more than 80 years ago. The German War Graves Commission is undertaking an investigation to identify the soldiers, a process that involves piecing together various clues. The condition of the recovered items, including identification tags and the motorcycle, is remarkably good due to the riverbed's sludge and oil mixture.

Key Facts

• Two World War II German soldiers' remains were found in the Danube River in Budapest.
• Record-low water levels, caused by drought, led to the discoveries.
• Alongside the remains were identification tags, a wedding ring, a Kuban shield, and a DKW NZ 350-1 motorcycle.
• The German War Graves Commission is investigating to identify the soldiers.
• Anti-tank mines were also recovered, necessitating a bomb disposal unit deployment.
• The motorcycle is a DKW NZ 350-1 model, produced for wartime use from 1944.

Background

The DKW NZ 350-1 motorcycle was specifically developed for wartime use and produced between 1944 and 1945. German soldiers' identification tags were designed to be split, with one half kept with the deceased and the other sent to authorities for notification purposes, a process that apparently failed for these two individuals.