Kaiserschützen


The k.k. Landesschützen - from 16 January 1917 Kaiserschützen - has been three regiments of Austro-Hungarian mountain infantry during the kaiserliche und königliche Monarchie. As a rule, only Tyrolean and Vorarlbergen men were hired in the Landesschützen.

History

Established 19 December 1870 with ten Tyrolian Landesschützen battalions, there were two companies of mounted infantry added in 1872. In 1906 they were reorganized in the pattern of the Italian Alpini as pure mountain troops.
Despite being territorial forces, the Kaiserschützen were used in the First World War in many theatres and took heavy losses.

Deployments 1914–1918

They were principally deployed in opposition to the Italian Alpini. By the date of the armistice, 4 November 1918, the second and third regiments were positioned on Zugna Torta, over Monte Corno, up to Monte Spil. The first regiment were up to the Adamello-Presanella Alps.

Military awards

Members of the Kaiserschützen have been awarded the following military decorations:

Officer Awards