Hans Mikosch – Pionier-Btl. 51 (Eben-Emael!) & Pionier-Rgt.-Stab 677 (Stalingrad – Eichenlaub!)

Original Wartime Portrait with Postwar Signature of Hans Mikosch. Generalleutnant Hans Mikosch (7 January 1898, Lissa † 18 January 1993, Mannheim)

Hans Mikosch was one of the most renowned pioneer officers of the Wehrmacht, rising to the rank of Generalleutnant. He distinguished himself as a combat engineer commander in both the Western and Eastern campaigns, earning the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his bold leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 21 May 1940, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Pionier-Bataillon 51.

  “Oberstleutnant Mikosch fearlessly led his Bataillon through fortified and toughly defended enemy positions in order to relieve the brave conquerors of Fort Eben-Emael. It was the successful completion of this deed which enabled the Fort to definitively come under our control. Such high recognition of this action is simultaneously tribute to the efforts and outstanding achievements of the entire German Pionierwaffe.”

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 210th award) – 6 March 1943, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Pionier-Regimentsstab z.b.V. 677 and Führer of a Kampfgruppe in Stalingrad.

  At Stalingrad, Mikosch commanded a hastily formed Kampfgruppe composed of pioneer elements and mixed infantry. His units were repeatedly called upon for breakthrough and blocking actions in the brutal street fighting. Mikosch personally led from the front, improvising under desperate conditions to hold Soviet assaults at bay. His combat engineers played a vital role in house-to-house fighting, the defense of key strongpoints, and the reinforcement of crumbling sectors. His tireless leadership and personal bravery were instrumental in keeping his formation intact during the catastrophic collapse of the German 6th Army.

Career Highlights:

• Veteran of the First World War who continued service in the Reichswehr as a career officer.

• Commanded Pionier-Bataillon 51 during the 1940 Western Campaign, where his actions at Fort Eben-Emael earned him the Knight’s Cross.

• On the Eastern Front, his Stalingrad command brought him further distinction, leading to the Oak Leaves in 1943.

• Survived captivity and postwar lived in Mannheim, remaining a respected figure among Germany’s pioneer veterans until his death in 1993.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Hans Mikosch.

• Signed on an original wartime portrait.

• Condition: Clear signature and well-preserved portrait.

Collector’s Note:
This item combines the rarity of a wartime portrait with Mikosch’s postwar autograph, making it especially desirable. His pivotal role in the capture of Fort Eben-Emael and his tenacious leadership of a Kampfgruppe in the inferno of Stalingrad underline his reputation as one of the outstanding leaders of the Pioniertruppe