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Original Postwar Signature on a Carton with Photo Added to it of Hans-Ludwig Speth. General der Artillerie Hans-Ludwig Speth (7 October 1897, Rockenberg-Friedberg/Hesse † 30 April 1985) was a long-serving officer who fought in both World Wars and rose to the rank of General der Artillerie during the Second World War. He was a highly decorated general staff officer and divisional commander, awarded both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 14 April 1942, as Oberst im Generalstab with Stab Generalkommando LIV. Armeekorps.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 23 February 1944, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of 28. Jäger-Division.

Career Highlights:

• Entered service in 1915 with 2. Kurhessisches Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr. 47, serving as an officer in the First World War.

• Remained in the Reichswehr, advancing through artillery and staff assignments.

• Prewar instructor at the Kriegsakademie Berlin, later promoted to Oberstleutnant in 1939.

• Served as Ia of XXVII. Armeekorps during the 1940 Western campaign.

• Staff service in Romania and Albania in 1940–41 before becoming Chef des Generalstabes LIV. Armeekorps, participating in the Crimea and Leningrad campaigns.

• Awarded the German Cross in Gold in 1942 for his work as a corps staff officer.

• From late 1942 until late 1943 served as Chief of Staff, 18. Armee.

• Appointed Kommandeur of 28. Jäger-Division in December 1943, leading it through difficult Eastern Front fighting and earning the Knight’s Cross in February 1944.

• Promoted to Generalleutnant in 1944, and by October of the same year to General der Artillerie.

• Final wartime role as Commandant of the Kriegsakademie in Berlin until May 1945.

• Survived the war and lived in Hesse until his death in 1985.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Artillerie Hans-Ludwig Speth.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Speth’s career bridged staff excellence and divisional command, with decorations reflecting both aspects. His awards — the German Cross in Gold as a senior staff officer and the Knight’s Cross as a divisional commander — make his autograph a desirable addition for collectors of Heer generals and decorated leaders of the Eastern Front.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Werner von Bercken. Generalleutnant Werner von Bercken (8 February 1897, Oppeln/Silesia † 29 Februry 1976, Röttgen/North Rhine-Westphalia) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. He was a decorated front-line divisional commander on the Eastern Front, earning the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross, as well as a citation in the official Wehrmachtbericht.

Awards and Decorations:

• Wehrmachtbericht Mention – 10 December 1943.

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 1 June 1944, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 102. Infanterie-Division.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 23 October 1944, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of 102. Infanterie-Division.

  Awarded for his leadership in the defensive fighting near Novgorod along the Narew river, where his division successfully prevented repeated attempts by the Soviet 47th Army to force a crossing.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the German Army during the First World War.

• Continued service in the interwar Reichswehr and Wehrmacht, rising through the ranks.

• Commanded the 102. Infanterie-Division, where he earned both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross for his determined leadership in the heavy defensive battles of 1943–44.

• Promoted to Generalleutnant in recognition of his service.

• Captured by the Soviets in April 1945 and held as a prisoner of war until October 1955.

• Returned to Germany after his release, living in North Rhine-Westphalia until his death in 1976.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Werner von Bercken.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Smaller size.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Werner von Bercken’s decorations — the German Cross in Gold, the Knight’s Cross, and a Wehrmachtbericht mention — place him among the recognized divisional commanders of the Eastern Front. His long Soviet captivity (1945–1955) adds historical context, making his autograph a compelling piece for collectors of German Army leadership and Eastern Front memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of August Wittmann. Generalleutnant August Wittmann (20 July 1895, Munich † 29 March 1977, Glonn/Bavaria) was a long-serving officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. A veteran of both World Wars, he became one of the most decorated artillery commanders of the Gebirgstruppe, earning the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross and the German Cross in Gold, as well as multiple mentions in the official Wehrmachtbericht.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Alfred Ritz. Hauptmann Alfred Ritz (10 March 1914, Voerde-Wesel † 12 April 1982, Bonn) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Hauptmann during the Second World War. Serving in the elite 1. Panzer-Division, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership in combat during the final months of the war.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Werner Ranck. Generalmajor Werner Ranck (25 October 1904, Hamburg † 7 December 1989, Hamburg) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. A front-line commander on the Eastern Front, he earned both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 10 February 1944, with X. Armeekorps.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 2 March 1945, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 121. Infanterie-Division.

Career Highlights:

• Entered military service in the interwar Reichswehr.

• Rose steadily through the ranks during the Second World War, serving on the Eastern Front.

• Distinguished himself as a staff officer and later as a division commander.

• As commander of the 121. Infanterie-Division, he received the Knight’s Cross for leading his troops in heavy defensive fighting during the final months of the war.

• Promoted to Generalmajor by 1945.

• Survived captivity and returned to Hamburg, where he lived until his death in 1989.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Werner Ranck.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Smaller ID size.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Ranck’s dual decorations — the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross — underline his reputation as a competent and proven commander on the Eastern Front. His autograph is a desirable addition for collectors of late-war Heer division commanders and Knight’s Cross recipients.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Otto Lasch. General der Infanterie Otto Lasch (25 June 1893, Pleß † 29 April 1971, Bonn) was a career officer in the German Army who rose to the rank of General der Infanterie during the Second World War. A highly decorated front-line commander, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his leadership of infantry divisions on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 17 July 1941, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Infanterie-Regiment 43, 1. Infanterie-Division.

  During the opening phase of Operation Barbarossa, Lasch commanded advanced detachments tasked with capturing Riga. By driving his men forward with speed and determination, he broke into the city as planned on 1 July 1941, paving the way for German reinforcements to secure the eastern districts. His decisive actions contributed greatly to the success of 18. Armee and earned him the Knight’s Cross.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 578th award) – 10 September 1944, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of the 349. Infanterie-Division.

  Recognized for his leadership of the division during the Lemberg–Brody battles of July 1944. After being surrounded with his division and Korpsabteilung C, Lasch led a breakout on 21–22 July, seizing key heights and villages near Jasionowce and Zalesie. When Soviet forces encircled them again the following day, he again organized a breakout, enabling elements of his command to escape despite heavy losses.

• Wehrmachtbericht Mention – 12 April 1945.

Career Highlights:

• Joined the Prussian Army in 1912 and fought in World War I.

• Rose through the ranks during the interwar years, commanding the Infanterie-Regiment 43 at the start of Operation Barbarossa.

• Distinguished himself in the capture of Riga (1941) and in the defensive fighting of Lemberg/Brody (1944).

• Promoted to General der Infanterie.

• In April 1945, he was appointed Commandant of Königsberg, tasked with defending the city during its final siege.

• After the city’s capitulation, he was captured by the Soviets and spent years in captivity before being released in 1953.

• Died in Bonn in 1971.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Infanterie Otto Lasch.

• Signed on a postwar photograph. Smaller size.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Otto Lasch is best remembered as the commander of Königsberg’s final defense, but his earlier awards — the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and his Wehrmachtbericht mention — highlight a career of front-line leadership. His autograph is a historically significant addition for collectors of Eastern Front and high-command Heer memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Helmut Besch. Generalmajor Helmut Besch (17 April 1892, Strasbourg † 13 October 1974, Tübingen) was a career officer whose service spanned both the Imperial and Wehrmacht eras, culminating in his appointment as Generalmajor in November 1942.

Career & Commands

• Prewar Service: Commander of the Truppenübungsplatz (Training Area) Heuberg (from 1 December 1935).

• Commands during WWII:

  • Kommandant Truppenübungsplatz Heuberg (1 September 1939)

  • Kommandant Truppenübungsplatz Harskamp (20 June 1940)

  • Kommandant Truppenübungsplatz Galizien (Janów near Lemberg, 9 March 1942 – 10 April 1944)

  • Returned as Kommandant Truppenübungsplatz Heuberg (20 May 1944).

Promotions

• Oberst – 1 January 1938

• Generalmajor – 1 November 1942

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Werner Ebeling. Oberst Werner Ebeling (11 November 1907 † 16 December 2001) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Oberst during the Second World War. A highly decorated front-line commander of the 58. Infanterie-Division, he received the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his leadership in some of the fiercest battles on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 11 March 1943, as Oberleutnant with Grenadier-Regiment 220.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 9 April 1944, as Major and Kommandeur of II./Grenadier-Regiment 220, 58. Infanterie-Division.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 799th award) – 5 March 1945, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 154, 58. Infanterie-Division.

Career Highlights:

• Served throughout the war in infantry leadership roles, primarily with the 58. Infanterie-Division.

• Earned the German Cross in Gold in 1943 for his distinguished service in combat as a company-grade officer.

• Awarded the Knight’s Cross in April 1944 for outstanding leadership of his battalion during hard-fought engagements on the Eastern Front.

• Received the Oak Leaves in March 1945 as a regimental commander, recognized for his division’s stubborn resistance during the late-war battles against overwhelming Soviet forces.

• Survived the war and lived until 2001, reaching the age of 94.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Oberst Werner Ebeling.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Excellent, with a clear and bold autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Ebeling’s combination of the German Cross in Gold, Knight’s Cross, and Oak Leaves makes his autograph especially attractive for Eastern Front collectors. His long career within the 58. Infanterie-Division gives his grouping of awards and service a strong cohesion and significance.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Martin Unrein. General der Panzertruppen Martin Unrein (1 January 1901, Weimar † 22 January 1972, Karlsruhe) was a German Panzer commander who rose to the rank of General der Panzertruppen during the Second World War. A highly decorated officer, he received the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his leadership of armored formations on the Eastern Front in 1943–44.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 2099th award) – 10 September 1943, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Panzergrenadier-Regiment 4, 6. Panzer-Division, XXXXVI. Armeekorps, 8. Armee, Heeresgruppe Süd.

  Awarded for his successful leadership of Panzergrenadier-Regiment 4 during the aftermath of the Battle of Kursk, in particular for the fighting at Alexejevka (19 July 1943) and in the Fourth Battle of Kharkov at Taranovka (23 August 1943). His recommendation also cited his distinguished service during the 1942–43 campaigns, including the successful attack at Sytschevka (5 May 1942).

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub zum Eisernen Kreuz, 544th award) – 26 June 1944, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of the 14. Panzer-Division, III. Armeekorps, 6. Armee, Heeresgruppe Südukraine.

  Recognized for his distinguished command of the 14. Panzer-Division in a series of critical battles: the defensive actions around Ingulez and Adshamka (15 November 1943 – 4 January 1944), the Battle of Kirovograd (5–22 January 1944), the relief efforts and defensive fighting around Cherkassy (23 January – 4 March 1944), and the retreat into Romania (March–May 1944).

Career Highlights:

• Career officer who entered the Reichswehr in the 1920s and specialized in mobile warfare.

• Distinguished himself as a regimental commander in the 6. Panzer-Division, earning the Knight’s Cross in 1943.

• Promoted to Generalmajor, he led the 14. Panzer-Division through grueling defensive campaigns in Ukraine and Romania, recognized with the Oak Leaves in 1944.

• Promoted to General der Panzertruppen, later entrusted with command of the III. (Germanisches) SS-Panzer-Korps in the final battles of 1945.

• Captured at the end of the war and released from captivity before settling in West Germany, where he lived until his death in 1972.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Panzertruppen Martin Unrein.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
As a recipient of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and a commander of both Panzer-Divisions and the III. SS-Panzer-Korps, Martin Unrein’s autograph is highly desirable. His battlefield leadership in the Ukraine campaigns of 1943–44 and his high-level command in the final year of the war make this a significant and historically rich addition to any advanced Panzer collection.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Martin Bieber. Generalleutnant Martin Bieber (17 November 1900, Tabarz † 19 October 1974, Bad Reichenhall) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. He distinguished himself as a regimental and divisional commander on the Eastern Front and was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his leadership.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 1901st award) – 28 July 1943, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 184, 86. Infanterie-Division, XXXXI. Panzer-Korps, 9. Armee, Heeresgruppe Mitte.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 601st award) – 2 September 1944, as Oberst and Führer of Divisionsgruppe 86, Korps-Abteilung E, XX. Armeekorps, 2. Armee, Heeresgruppe Mitte.

Career Highlights:

• Career officer from the Reichswehr era who served with distinction throughout WWII.

• As commander of Grenadier-Regiment 184, he earned the Knight’s Cross in 1943 during the heavy fighting on the central sector of the Eastern Front.

• Promoted to divisional leadership, taking over Divisionsgruppe 86, later absorbed into Korps-Abteilung E, where he proved his resilience during the defensive battles of 1944.

• Awarded the Oak Leaves in September 1944 for his skillful leadership of these ad-hoc formations under extreme pressure during the Soviet summer offensives.

• Promoted to Generalleutnant before the end of the war, surviving captivity and later settling in Bavaria.

• Commander of 271. Volksgrenadier-Division.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Martin Bieber.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Siegfried Westphal. General der Kavallerie Siegfried Westphal (18 March 1902, Leipzig † 2 July 1982, Celle) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of General der Kavallerie during the Second World War. A highly respected staff officer, he served as Chief of Staff to some of Germany’s most famous field commanders, including Erwin Rommel and Albert Kesselring, and later became Chief of Staff of OB West under Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 29 November 1942, as Oberst i.G. in the General Staff of Panzergruppe Afrika.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 18 May 1943, as Oberst i.G. and Chief of Staff of Panzerarmee Afrika.

Career Highlights:

• Began his career in the cavalry during the Reichswehr years, later transferring to the General Staff.

• In North Africa, served as Chief of Staff to Rommel, where his organizational skill and clarity of thought proved indispensable in managing Panzerarmee Afrika.

• Decorated with the German Cross in Gold and later the Knight’s Cross for his service in the African campaign.

• After the collapse of Axis forces in Africa, he was reassigned to Italy and later to France.

• Served as Chief of Staff to OB West during the Normandy campaign of 1944, working under Rundstedt during the Allied landings and subsequent battles in France.

• Captured in 1945 and later released from captivity.

• In postwar years, he became a respected military historian, publishing memoirs and works on the war, and later served as a NATO adviser.

• Died in 1982 in Celle.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Kavallerie Siegfried Westphal.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Westphal’s combination of frontline General Staff roles — serving directly under Rommel, Kesselring, and Rundstedt — makes him one of the most historically significant German staff officers of the war. His awards, his presence at many of the key campaigns of WWII, and his postwar prominence as an author and NATO figure make his signed material highly desirable.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Günther Blumentritt. General der Infanterie Günther Blumentritt (10 February 1892 † 12 October 1967) was a career officer who rose to the rank of General der Infanterie in the Wehrmacht. Highly regarded as a staff officer and strategist, he played a major role in the planning and execution of Germany’s campaigns in Poland, France, and later the defense of Western Europe.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 13 September 1944, as General der Infanterie and Chef des Generalstabes of Heeresgruppe D.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 772nd award) – 18 February 1945, as General der Infanterie and Führer of the 25. Armee.

Career Highlights:

• Served in the First World War and remained in the Reichswehr during the interwar years.

• As a staff officer, Blumentritt was heavily involved in operational planning. He was instrumental in devising the 1939 invasion of Poland and the 1940 campaign in France.

• Took part in Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union, in 1941.

• Later, as Chief of Staff of Heeresgruppe D, he bore significant responsibility for the planning and organization of the Atlantic Wall and the defense of Normandy.

• In early 1945, given command of the 25. Armee, for which he was awarded the Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross.

• After the war, he was held in captivity, later released, and lived in West Germany until his death in 1967.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Infanterie Günther Blumentritt.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Good, with clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Blumentritt is especially collectible due to his dual reputation as both a Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves holder and one of the Wehrmacht’s key strategic planners. His role in the invasions of Poland and France, as well as in preparing the Atlantic Wall defenses, makes his signed material particularly desirable for collectors focused on the high command of the Western Front.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Friedrich-Carl von Steinkeller. Generalmajor Friedrich-Carl von Steinkeller (28 March 1896 † 19 October 1981) was a German officer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. He distinguished himself as a Panzergrenadier commander in one of the Wehrmacht’s most famous armored formations, the 7. Panzer-Division.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 31 March 1943, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Panzergrenadier-Regiment 7, 7. Panzer-Division.

Career Highlights:

• A veteran of the First World War who remained in the Reichswehr between the wars.

• Took command of Panzergrenadier-Regiment 7 of the 7. Panzer-Division, one of the Wehrmacht’s most elite armored units, during the fighting on the Eastern Front.

• Awarded the Knight’s Cross for his leadership and bravery in combat operations in 1943.

• Promoted to Generalmajor before the war’s end.

• Survived captivity and lived in West Germany until his death in 1981.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Friedrich-Carl von Steinkeller.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Von Steinkeller’s connection with the elite 7. Panzer-Division underlines the desirability of his autograph for collectors of armored warfare history. His award of the Knight’s Cross as a regimental commander adds to the appeal, making this an excellent item for a Panzer or Heer collection.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Max Lemke. Generalmajor Max Lemke (7 April 1895, Schwedt † 29 May 1985, Hannover) was a German officer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. He was decorated with both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership of reconnaissance and armored formations, and he later became the final commander of the elite Fallschirm-Panzer-Division 1 “Hermann Göring.”

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 18 October 1941, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Aufklärungs-Abteilung 17, 17. Infanterie-Division.

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 23 June 1942.

Career Highlights:

• A veteran officer of the First World War who continued service in the Reichswehr and Wehrmacht.

• As commander of Aufklärungs-Abteilung 17 in the 17. Infanterie-Division, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross in October 1941 for his successful leadership in the early phases of the war in the East.

• Earned the German Cross in Gold in 1942 for further distinction in combat.

• Rose to command positions within elite formations, becoming the last commander of the Fallschirm-Panzer-Division 1 “Hermann Göring” in the final days of the war.

• Taken prisoner on 12 May 1945, released a little over a month later on 18 June 1945.

• After the war, remained active in the Ordensgemeinschaft der Ritterkreuzträger (Association of Knight’s Cross Recipients).

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Max Lemke.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Lemke’s combination of the German Cross in Gold, Knight’s Cross, and final command of the “Hermann Göring” Division make his autograph a highly desirable piece for collectors of Wehrmacht leadership and elite unit commanders.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Heinz-Günther Guderian. Generalmajor Heinz-Günther Guderian (23 August 1914, Goslar † 25 September 2004, Bad Godesberg) was a German officer of the Wehrmacht who rose to the rank of Generalmajor. The son of famed Panzer leader Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub), he forged his own distinguished career as a General Staff officer and later in the Bundeswehr. He was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross in 1944 for his leadership in organizing the breakout of the 116. Panzer-Division from the Falaise pocket.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 5 October 1944, as Major im Generalstab, Ia of 116. Panzer-Division.

  Awarded for his key role in the Falaise pocket breakout (August 1944). With the situation collapsing and no orders to withdraw, Guderian was instrumental in organizing and directing the division’s successful breakout on the night of 20 August 1944, preventing its total destruction.

Career Highlights:

• Entered service in 1935, steadily advancing through the officer ranks.

• Served in staff and Panzer-related assignments throughout the war, reaching the General Staff as Major i.G.

• Distinguished himself in the West in 1944 during the retreat from Normandy, where his actions earned him the Knight’s Cross.

• Promoted to Oberstleutnant i.G. in November 1944.

• Postwar, he joined the Bundeswehr, where he continued a long military career: promoted to Oberst (1960), Brigadegeneral (1963), and ultimately Generalmajor (1968), serving as General der Kampftruppen.

• Survived the war and lived until 2004, reaching the age of 90.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Heinz-Günther Guderian.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
As the son of the legendary Heinz Guderian, and himself a Knight’s Cross recipient with a distinguished postwar Bundeswehr career, Heinz-Günther Guderian’s signature is of high collector interest. His role in the Falaise pocket breakout highlights his independent achievements, apart from his father’s fame, and makes this a highly desirable piece for Panzer and Normandy campaign collectors.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Wilhelm Bleckwenn. Generalmajor Wilhelm Bleckwenn (21 October 1906 † 10 May 1989) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. A front-line regimental commander, he earned both the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross and later the Oak Leaves for his leadership of Grenadier-Regiment 487 of the 267. Infanterie-Division.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 6 April 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 487, 267. Infanterie-Division.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 638th award) – 18 October 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 487, 267. Infanterie-Division.

Oak Leaves Citation:
Following the collapse of Heeresgruppe Mitte during Operation Bagration, Oberst Bleckwenn and a small Kampfgruppe under his command managed to break through to East Prussia after 44 days of continuous fighting through the Belorussian forests. In one of the most notable actions of this retreat, on the night of 4/5 August 1944, Bleckwenn led his men across the Memel river south of Druschkiniki, overcoming torrential currents and enemy resistance. For this remarkable achievement of leadership and perseverance, he was awarded the Oak Leaves.

Career Highlights:

• Career officer who served in both the Reichswehr and Wehrmacht.

• Commanded Grenadier-Regiment 487 with distinction on the Eastern Front.

• Decorated with the Knight’s Cross in April 1944 for earlier combat leadership.

• Survived the war, later attaining the rank of Generalmajor.

• Lived until 1989, passing away at the age of 82.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Wilhelm Bleckwenn.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Good, with a clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Bleckwenn’s Oak Leaves citation highlights one of the most dramatic survival and retreat stories of 1944. His leadership during the collapse of Heeresgruppe Mitte and his regiment’s epic retreat into East Prussia makes his signature a highly desirable piece for Eastern Front collectors.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Hubertus-Maria Ritter von Heigl. Generalmajor Hubertus-Maria Ritter von Heigl (10 November 1897, Siegenburg † 24 January 1985, München) was a German officer of the Heer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. A career pioneer officer, he was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership of Pionier-Bataillon 70 during the early stages of the war in the East.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 13 January 1942, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Pionier-Bataillon 70.

Career Highlights:

• World War I veteran who continued his career through the Reichswehr and into the Wehrmacht.

• Specialized in combat engineering and pioneer operations, serving as commander of Pionier-Bataillon 70.

• Awarded the Knight’s Cross in early 1942 for his successful leadership of assault and engineering operations on the Eastern Front.

• Later promoted to Generalmajor, continuing to serve in command and staff functions until the end of the war.

• Survived captivity and lived in Munich until his death in 1985.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Hubertus-Maria Ritter von Heigl.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, bold autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Ritter von Heigl is among the distinguished pioneer commanders recognized with the Knight’s Cross. His signature is a fine addition for collectors focusing on decorated officers of the Wehrmacht’s specialized branches, particularly combat engineers (Pioniere).

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Erwin Jollasse. Generalleutnant Erwin Jollasse (8 December 1892, Hamburg † 14 March 1987, Tutzing) was a German officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. A veteran infantry and Panzergrenadier commander, he was decorated with both the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross and the German Cross in Gold for his leadership on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 2 November 1941, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Schützen-Regiment 52, 18. Panzer-Division.

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 6 January 1944.

Career Highlights:

• World War I veteran who continued his service in the Reichswehr and later the Wehrmacht.

• Commanded Schützen-Regiment 52 of the 18. Panzer-Division during the opening campaigns in the Soviet Union, where his leadership earned him the Knight’s Cross in late 1941.

• Later recognized with the German Cross in Gold in 1944 for continued distinguished command achievements.

• Rose to the rank of Generalleutnant, serving in staff and divisional command roles during the later stages of the war.

• Survived the war and lived until 1987, passing away in Tutzing at the age of 94.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Erwin Jollasse.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Excellent, with a clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Jollasse’s long service career and his distinction as both a Knight’s Cross and German Cross in Gold recipient make his autograph an attractive addition for collectors of decorated Heer officers, particularly those connected with the 18. Panzer-Division and Eastern Front operations.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walter Warlimont. General der Artillerie Walter Warlimont (3 October 1894, Osnabrück † 9 October 1976, Kreuth am Tegernsee) was a German General der Artillerie and one of the most prominent military strategists in the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht (OKW) during World War II. Commissioned in 1914, he fought in the First World War before serving in several influential staff roles in the interwar years.

He studied U.S. mobilization methods and became Chief of the Industrial Mobilization Section in Germany. During the Spanish Civil War, Warlimont coordinated German aid to Franco and, by 1937, authored a memorandum that influenced Hitler’s creation of the OKW.

In WWII he quickly rose in rank, becoming Deputy Chief of the Armed Forces Operations Staff under General Alfred Jodl. He helped plan the invasions of Poland, France, and Russia, and was involved in strategic oversight throughout the war. On 20 July 1944, he was severely wounded in the assassination attempt against Hitler at the Wolf’s Lair.

Awards and Decorations:

• Verwundetenabzeichen 20. Juli 1944 in Schwarz – Wounded in the assassination attempt on Hitler, 20 July 1944 (presented 2 September 1944).

• Ritterkreuz des Kriegsverdienstkreuzes mit Schwertern – 1 February 1945, as General der Artillerie and Chief of the Wehrmachtführungsstabes, OKW.

Postwar:
In 1948, Warlimont was tried in the High Command Trial at Nuremberg for war crimes and sentenced to life imprisonment, though he was released in 1954. He later authored the book Inside Hitler’s Headquarters 1939–1945 and lived quietly in Bavaria until his death in 1976.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Artillerie Walter Warlimont.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Very good, with a clear and strong autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Warlimont’s role as Deputy Chief of the OKW Operations Staff makes him one of the key figures of the German high command during WWII. His direct connection to the 20 July 1944 bomb plot and subsequent decorations further elevate the historic significance of his autograph.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Lothar Berger. Generalmajor Lothar Berger (31 December 1900, Halberstadt, Saxony † 5 November 1971, Bad Schwartau, Schleswig-Holstein) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. A front-line leader from the campaign in France to the desperate battles of 1945, he was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves as well as Romania’s Order of the Star.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 151st award) – 5 August 1940, as Major and Kommandeur of III./Infanterie-Regiment 84, 4. Infanterie-Division, VIII. Armee-Korps, 7. Armee, Heeresgruppe C.

  Awarded for his exemplary leadership during the French Campaign. On 14 May 1940, Major Berger led his assault companies in the crossing of the Maas near Yvoir under heavy fire. Days later, on 17–18 May, his battalion achieved another decisive success by penetrating the fortified works near Berelles on the French–Belgian border.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 806th award) – 28 March 1945, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Brigade z.b.V. 100, XXXX. Panzer-Korps, 4. Panzer-Armee, Heeresgruppe Mitte.

  Recognized for his distinguished leadership of Brigade z.b.V. 100 during the heavy fighting in early 1945.

Career Highlights:

• Joined the Reichswehr after the First World War and developed into an experienced infantry officer.

• Rose to prominence in the 1940 French Campaign, where his battalion’s bold river crossing and breakthrough earned him the Knight’s Cross.

• Decorated by Germany’s Axis ally Romania in 1942.

• Commanded Brigade z.b.V. 100 in the last year of the war, for which he was awarded the Oak Leaves in March 1945.

• Promoted to Generalmajor before the war’s end.

• Survived captivity and lived in West Germany until his death in 1971.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Lothar Berger. Writting on reverse.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Berger’s dual Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and his Romanian decoration make his signature particularly sought-after. From the Meuse crossing of 1940 to the last desperate battles of 1945, his career illustrates the trajectory of a combat-proven officer who fought on both the Western and Eastern Fronts.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Franz Griesbach. Generalmajor Franz Griesbach (21 December 1892 † 24 September 1984) was a German officer of the Heer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. A highly decorated front-line commander, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords for his leadership of infantry regiments in the bitter fighting on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 14 March 1942, as Major and Kommandeur of I./Infanterie-Regiment 391, 170. Infanterie-Division.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 252nd award) – 17 May 1943, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 399, 170. Infanterie-Division.

• Swords to the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern, 65th award) – 6 March 1944, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Grenadier-Regiment 399, 170. Infanterie-Division.

Career Highlights:

• World War I veteran who continued his career in the interwar Reichswehr and later the Wehrmacht.

• Distinguished himself early on the Eastern Front, earning the Knight’s Cross in 1942 for his leadership of I./Infanterie-Regiment 391.

• As commander of Grenadier-Regiment 399, he led his men through some of the hardest battles of 1943–44, earning both the Oak Leaves and later the Swords to the Knight’s Cross.

• Promoted to Generalmajor, one of the few officers of his rank to be awarded the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords.

• Survived the war, captivity, and lived until 1984.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Franz Griesbach.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Griesbach’s decorations mark him as one of the rare recipients of the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords, awarded only 159 times during the war. His leadership of regiments in the 170. Infanterie-Division on the Eastern Front makes this signature especially desirable for collectors of high-ranking and highly decorated Heer officers.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Friedrich von Volckamer und Kirchensittenbach. Generalleutnant Friedrich von Volckamer und Kirchensittenbach (16 April 1894 † 3 April 1989) was a German Army officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. He was decorated with both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership of the 8. Jäger-Division on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 3 November 1943, as Generalmajor with 8. Jäger-Division.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 26 March 1944, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of 8. Jäger-Division.

Career Highlights:

• World War I veteran who continued his career into the Reichswehr and later the Wehrmacht.

• Took command of the 8. Jäger-Division, a formation specialized in combat in difficult terrain and often used in challenging defensive operations on the Eastern Front.

• Awarded the German Cross in Gold in late 1943 for his division’s performance in heavy combat.

• Decorated with the Knight’s Cross in March 1944 for his leadership during intense defensive battles against the Red Army.

• Survived the war and lived until 1989, reaching the age of 94.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Friedrich von Volckamer und Kirchensittenbach.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Excellent, with a clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
As a decorated divisional commander and recipient of both the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross, von Volckamer und Kirchensittenbach’s signature is a desirable addition to any collection of Eastern Front and Heer memorabilia. His leadership of the 8. Jäger-Division represents the specialized and often overlooked role of the Jäger formations within the Wehrmacht.