The piece is defined by its rhythmic drive, intended for synchronizing movement during a march:
: The lyrics were penned by Willi Münker in November 1932, shortly before the end of the Weimar Republic.
: In 1935, Joseph Neuhäuser set the lyrics to music, reportedly adapting an existing folk melody.
The song's development occurred during the transitional period of the early 1930s:
: It was officially published and recorded for the first time in 1937.
: It is typically performed in D major or F major as a standard military march.
: The song features a call-and-response element, most notably the shout of "Eukalyptusbonbon!" (Eucalyptus candy) or other rhythmic interjections between verses during informal performances.