View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.

U.S. Militaria Forum

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS

Tap the Share icon in Safari
Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
Tap Add in the top-right corner.

To install this app on Android

Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
Confirm by tapping Install.

US Militaria Forum

Ceremonial Sword - Looking for Any Info

August 30, 2025Aug 30

Hello!

Please see the photos. I have a ceremonial sword that is more of a curiosity than anything else. I have no delusions regarding its value. The etched blade is inscribed "POST 854" over "LINDA NICKELS". The scabbard is inscribed "FOR SERVICES RENDERED" over "RANGERS". It's not a real weapon of sorts but more like an award or trophy.

I have googled Linda Nickels and Post 854 and cannot find anything and candidly I am not much interested in that. I am more interested in any details pertaining to the maker of the sword and perhaps its age. As you can see in the pix below the left side is stamped "TRADE" over "DEFENDER" over "MARK" over "N.S. MEYER" (I think) over "WEST GERMANY".

Any info or thoughts pertaining to the maker or its age would be most appreciated.

Best!