Originally created as Hitler's personal household troops, the Waffen-SS grew into a formidable fighting force during World War 2. It gained a reputation second to none for its tenacity in combat, but also for brutality, which made it the subject of numerous Allied war crimes investigations. Take a look at these never-before-seen photographs from the 1940s. Go behind enemy lines as the German Special Forces invade Poland, Russia, and other surrounding nations. This is one incredible collection you won’t want to miss!