Heinrich Bleichrodt – “U-48” & “U-109” (Eichenlaub) (Wartime Signed)

Heinrich Bleichrodt (21 October 1909 † 9 January 1977) was a decorated German U-boat commander of the Second World War, serving with distinction during the Battle of the Atlantic. As commander of U-48 and later U-109, Bleichrodt achieved major successes against Allied shipping and became one of the Kriegsmarine’s leading U-boat aces.

Awards and Decorations

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 24 October 1940, as Kapitänleutnant and Kommandant of U-48.

• Oak Leaves (Eichenlaub) – 23 September 1942, as Kapitänleutnant and Kommandant of U-109.

• U-boat War Badge (U-Boots-Kriegsabzeichen).

• Iron Cross (1939) 1st and 2nd Class.

Item Details

• Original wartime signature of Kapitänleutnant Heinrich Bleichrodt.

• Signed on a wartime postcard.

• Provenance: From the large personal collection of HJ boy Ernst Fritzsche, who collected wartime autographs and correspondence during the period.

• Condition: Good; postcard shows light age wear and trimmed edges from period handling. Signature remains bold and well-preserved.

Collector’s Note

Heinrich Bleichrodt ranks among the most successful U-boat commanders of the Kriegsmarine, credited with over 200,000 GRT of enemy shipping sunk. His autograph on wartime material is scarce and highly desirable, especially with traceable period provenance.