The troops have been withdrawn to some extent from the fortifications and are housed in local billets. The fortifications themselves are guarded. The barriers at the frontiers are opened.
Z [Initialled by Zeitzler]
L I a
Berlin, 9 June 1938
MOST SECRET
2 copies
1st copy
Question 4: Frontier protection in the West?
Answer:
In the West as at the other frontiers, the first frontier protection is undertaken by the VGAD, then the Frontier Guard.
This protection by the Frontier Guard is directly at the frontier. At the same time as the Frontier Guard at the frontier, the fortification installations, which lie further back, receive security garrisons (reserve personnel).
Strength of the Frontier Guard on the Western Frontier:
15,200 men with 1,250 light MG's.