Volkssturm

Hitler created the Volkssturm, conscripting males aged 16–60 who were not already in the armed forces.

In October 1944, Hitler created the Volkssturm, a militia intended to reinforce Germany’s defence. Males aged 16–60 who were not already in the army were compelled to join. This extended military service to teenage boys and older men, exposing more families to the danger of injury and death.