Erich Diestel – 346. Infanterie-Division (Normandy, Flanders)

Original Scarce Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Erich Diestel. Generalleutnant Erich Diestel (8 November 1892, Deutsch Eylau † 3 August 1973, Bad Wiessee) was a career officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. He held several key commands, most notably leading the 346. Infanterie-Division in heavy fighting on the Western Front and later commanding Korps Diestel and Armeeabteilung Kleffel in the final defense of Holland. Captured in May 1945, he remained in captivity until 1947.

Awards & Decorations:

• Deutsches Kreuz in Gold – 2 January 1942 as Oberst und Kommandeur of Infanterie-Regiment 188 / 68. Infanterie-Division

• Wehrmachtbericht Mention – 10 September 1944: “The 346th Infantry Division under the command of Generalleutnant Diestel has fought outstandingly in the battles in Flanders.”

• Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 8 October 1944 as Generalleutnant und Kommandeur of the 346. Infanterie-Division, awarded for his division’s performance on the Western Front, particularly during the fighting in Flanders, which also brought him recognition in the Wehrmachtbericht.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Erich Diestel.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Very good, well-preserved.

Collector’s Note:
As commander of the 346. Infanterie-Division, Diestel played a significant role in the fierce battles in Normandy and Flanders in 1944. His Ritterkreuz award was directly linked to his leadership during this campaign, making his autograph an appealing acquisition for collectors of high-ranking Heer commanders of the Western Front.