On this fire starter is St. Alexander Schmorell’s most well-known phrase: “Don’t forget God”, which he wrote in a letter to his parents before his martyrdom.

Dear Mother and Father,

It was indeed not to be otherwise, and by the will of God I am to conclude my earthly life today, in order to enter upon a new life that will never end, and in which we shall all meet again. May this reunion be your comfort and your hope. Unfortunately, this blow is harder to bear for you than for me, for I leave this life with the knowledge that I have served my deepest conviction and the truth. All this permits me to face the approaching hour of death with a calm conscience.

Think of the millions of young men who are giving up their lives on the battlefield—their fate is also mine. Greet all those who are dear to my heart most affectionately! But especially Natasha, Erich, Nyanya, Aunt Toni, Maria, Alionushka and Andrey.

In a few hours I shall be in the better world, with my mother; I shall not forget you, and shall intercede with God for your solace and peace. And I shall wait for you. One thing above all I urge upon you: do not forget God!!!

Your Shurik

With me goes Professor Huber, who also sends his heartfelt greetings!

This fire starter comes with a serrated blade for making magnesium shavings, a full length flint for making hot sparks. Shavings burn at 5400 degrees F and can ignite damp combustible materials.

$20

Instructions for use:

1.) Collect tinder (twigs, paper, dry grass, etc.) and wood into a pile nearby.

2.) Shave magnesium with serrated edge of attached blade onto surface to be ignited. Make a pile on a flat, dry piece of wood (if available) about 1/8” deep and the size of a quarter.

3.) Scrape the attached blade quickly along the sparking insert to create spark and ignite shavings.

4.) Add tinder, then wood to build and maintain fire.

Note: Effective use requires practice. If fire starter is to be used for emergency fire starting, practice using it in a safe location before an emergency arises.

Note: Magnesium block is fire resistant in solid form.

WARNING: To prevent serious injury or property damage:

1.) Keep away from children

2.) Only use in area designated specifically for fires. Check local regulations regarding fire and campfires.

3.) Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles during use.

4.) Do not stare at initial bright white flame.

5.) Use as intended only.

6.) If using a different blade with starter, use blade, not back edge, to prevent injury from blade closing.