Frankenheim

Frankenheim

One of the most popular patrol stops for Eaglehorse troopers on patrol (as well as pilots from the aviation squadron) was Check Point 131. Yes, the famous bratwurst stand that fed many a trooper and crew chief over the years. Not only did it provide a quick fix for hunger, but it was also a favorite stop for nature lovers who stopped and took a quick look at the border before hiking the trails of the Rhoen mountains. Not only was the spot popular with the Germans, but also with American military personnel who tried to sneak in to the 1 Kilometer Zone to look at the border. No doubt, many an unsuspecting G.I. was nabbed in the parking lot by the Cav troopers on patrol. Today, the border may be gone, but the spot is still a popular tourist stop. Yes, the bratwurst stand is still there cranking out wurst, and some of the border fence and the guard tower have been kept as a memorial to the Iron Curtain. Also, you can take hike on a trail to the former East German village of Frankenheim.

		1960s A look at the Soviet Occupation Zone. Only the bunker is there during this period.- EWS Ansichtskartenverlag photo

		1980s How it looked when the Wall fell.- EWS Ansichtskartenverlag photo

		1985 The plaque located down the road from the bratwurst stand. It has been removed and is no longer there.

		The Text of the Plaque "The entire German people from behind the Iron curtain call out to us, Do not forget, Don not sleep, do not rest until Germany is reunited again in peace and freedom." Erected on the 20th anniversary of the Berlin Wall - TDP photo

		1985 The tower. -TDP photo

		1990 After the fall of the border. The gate is open to the West. - Erwin Ritter photo

		2001 The tower today. The tower, as well as some of the fencing, was preserved as a memorial. - TDP photo

		Tower 2001 The entrance we could never see. - TDP photo

		2001 The Bunker A stairway has been added so visitors can climb easily to the top. - TDP photo

		2001 Still serving 'em hot! - TDP photo