BBA004 FRIEND OR FOE BY KING & COUNTRY
Overview
Introductory overview
History: US Military Police in Battle of the Bulge
Collector notes
King & Country’s BBA004 “Friend or Foe?” set presents three American military police figures accompanied by a jeep. Released in January 2005 and retired in December 2007, this 1:30‐scale diorama employs lead‑tin alloy and polystone materials. Midway through the Battle of the Bulge, these MPs—wearing distinctive non‑regulation blue scarves—create a striking visual contrast. For collectors, it offers both period detail and playful ambiguity. This review details the set’s specifications, historical backdrop, and collector considerations.
Historical Background
The depiction of U.S. Army Military Police (MPs) during the Battle of the Bulge reflects a less chronicled but vital wartime function. The Battle of the Bulge raged from December 16, 1944 to January 25, 1945 in the Ardennes region of Belgium, when German forces launched a surprise offensive against Allied lines. American MPs were tasked with traffic control, rear‑area security, handling prisoners, and maintaining discipline amid chaos. They often directed convoys through congested roads, which were clogged with reinforcements, medical evacuation, and retreating units. Although standard MP insignia included traffic control helmets (“TC”) and brassard markings, the model’s non‑regulation blue scarves may suggest expedient identification or artistic license.
During this period, MPs wore regulation M1943 field uniforms, often layered with winter gear including greatcoats, snow‑spatter camouflage, and helmet covers. Equipment included MP armbands, sidearms like the M1911 pistol, and occasionally traffic wands. Their presence helped sustain logistical flow, enabled unit movement, and ensured orderly evacuation of casualties. Though not frontline fighters, MPs were exposed to combat hazards, including artillery, Luftwaffe strafing, and infiltration by German units. Their effective management of traffic and rear discipline contributed to Allied resilience and counterattacks that eventually halted and reversed the German advance by late January 1945. Consequently, though understated, MPs served as a backbone of operational cohesion during one of World War II’s most critical campaigns.
Collector Notes
Identification: BBA004 “Friend or Foe?” includes three MPs and a jeep with distinctive blue scarves—a motif unique within the Battle of the Bulge series. The set is 1:30 scale, medium of lead‑tin alloy and polystone, factory‑painted. Released January 2005 and retired December 2007 (sagerssoldiers.com). Variants & Packaging: No documented variants exist. Original packaging is a windowed box with series labeling and BBA004 code; ensure presence of box and documentation to maintain value. Paint Apps & Condition: Watch for chipping on scarves and jeep details; lead alloy figures may suffer joint looseness. Polystone parts, such as tripod or windshield, can crack. Clean mold lines carefully to preserve factory paint.
Market Pricing: Secondary market listings show completed sets around USD 89 retail; resale ranges from €60–€160, depending on condition and provenance (sagerssoldiers.com). Mid‑range mint boxed examples typically sell around USD 150–160.
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