Friedrich Ruge – Minensuchboote West

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Friedrich Ruge. Kapitän zur See Friedrich Ruge (24 December 1894 † 3 July 1985) was a career naval officer who served in both World Wars and rose to the rank of Vizeadmiral during the Second World War. He was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership of German naval minesweeping forces in 1940. After the war, he became one of the most important figures in rebuilding the postwar German Navy, serving as the first Inspector of the Bundesmarine.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 21 October 1940, as Kapitän zur See and Kommodore of Minensuchboote West.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Imperial German Navy before World War I and served in various capacities throughout the conflict.

• Continued his career in the Reichsmarine and Kriegsmarine, specializing in minesweeping and escort operations.

• As Kommodore of Minensuchboote West, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross in 1940 for his successful leadership in clearing sea lanes and securing German operations during the early campaigns of the war.

• Rose to the rank of Vizeadmiral by 1944, serving in several senior naval staff and command positions.

• After 1945, played a central role in the creation of the Bundesmarine (Federal German Navy), becoming its first Inspector (1957–1961).

• Remembered as both a frontline naval commander and a key figure in the re-establishment of West Germany’s naval forces.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Kapitän zur See Friedrich Ruge.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Ruge is notable not only as a Knight’s Cross recipient but also as the first Inspector of the Bundesmarine, bridging the gap between the Kriegsmarine and the modern German Navy. His autograph is therefore of dual interest: to collectors of WWII Kriegsmarine memorabilia and to those focused on the Bundeswehr period.