Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern Award Doc – Dresden, 1941

Original WWII German award certificate for the Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern (War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords), awarded to Flieger Otto Heidenreich on 20 April 1941 in Dresden.

The certificate bears the heading „Im Namen des Führers und Obersten Befehlshabers der Wehrmacht“ (In the Name of the Führer and Supreme Commander of the Wehrmacht) and formally records the award of the Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern.

The recipient is identified as Flieger Otto Heidenreich, an enlisted member of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force). The award was issued under the authority of the Kommandierender General und Befehlshaber im Luftgau IV (Commanding General and Commander of Air District IV).

The document is signed by Generalmajor Wilhelm Mayer (Major General Wilhelm Mayer), whose signature appears prominently in the lower-right section. The combination of a named recipient, a specific award date, an official Luftgau IV service seal and the identified general’s signature adds considerable historical interest for collectors of Luftwaffe militaria and original award documents.

The Kriegsverdienstkreuz mit Schwertern (War Merit Cross with Swords) recognised meritorious service connected with the war effort involving enemy action. Dated 20 April 1941, this certificate originates from the early period of the Second World War, shortly before the German invasion of the Soviet Union.

The document features a circular official Dienstsiegel (service seal), typewritten recipient details, the award date and place, and a large handwritten signature. The printed publisher’s line at the bottom identifies the firm Militärverlag Maximilian-Verlag, Berlin SW 68.

Condition

The certificate shows noticeable age-related toning, several horizontal fold lines, extensive creasing and wrinkles, and minor scattered marks and stains. The paper remains largely intact, and the printed text, typewritten details, official seal and signature are clearly visible. Please examine the photographs carefully for the exact condition.

An original named Luftwaffe award document dated April 1941, suitable for collectors of German military decorations, Luftwaffe history and original WWII paperwork.