Luftwaffe & FJ

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Erich “Bubi” Hartmann. Major Erich Alfred “Bubi” Hartmann (19 April 1922, Weissach, Württemberg – 20 September 1993, Weil im Schönbuch, Germany) was the most successful fighter ace in aviation history, credited with an unparalleled 352 confirmed aerial victories on the Eastern Front. Known as “The Blond Knight of Germany”, Hartmann flew with Jagdgeschwader 52 (JG 52) and became one of the most decorated Luftwaffe fighter pilots of the Second World War. His skill, discipline, and survival across more than 1,400 combat missions earned him legendary status among pilots of all nations.

Awards and Decorations

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 17 October 1943

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 29 October 1943, as Leutnant and Flugzeugführer, 9./JG 52 (148 victories)

• Oak Leaves (Eichenlaub) – 2 March 1944, as Leutnant and Staffelkapitän, 9./JG 52 (200 victories)

• Swords (Schwerter) – 2 July 1944, as Oberleutnant and Staffelkapitän, 9./JG 52 (239 victories)

• Diamonds (Brillanten) – 25 August 1944, as Oberleutnant and Staffelkapitän, 9./JG 52 (301 victories)

• Pilot-Observer Badge in Gold with Diamonds (Gemeinsames Flugzeugführer- und Beobachterabzeichen mit Brillanten) – special presentation award

• Numerous additional decorations including the Iron Cross 1st and 2nd Class

Career Highlights

• Eastern Front Ace: Flew over 1,400 combat missions, engaging in aerial combat in nearly 825 of them.

• Unmatched Record: Credited with 352 confirmed kills, all against Soviet aircraft.

• Survival Tactics: Known for his strict discipline and patience in combat, avoiding unnecessary risks and striking with precision.

• Last Victory: Achieved his 352nd and final victory on 8 May 1945, just hours before Germany’s surrender.

• Postwar Captivity: Spent 10 years in Soviet captivity (1945–1955) before returning to West Germany.

• Postwar Career: Joined the newly formed Bundesluftwaffe (West German Air Force), where he commanded a fighter wing but later resigned due to political disputes over NATO standardization.

• Legacy: His name remains synonymous with aerial mastery, and he is celebrated as the most successful fighter ace in recorded history.

Item Details

• Authentic postwar signature of Major Erich “Bubi” Hartmann.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Good, clear autograph.

Collector’s Note

Hartmann’s autograph is among the most coveted in WWII aviation collecting. His record of 352 aerial victories is unmatched and will never likely be equaled. Decorated with the Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, Schwertern und Brillanten and the rare Pilot-Observer Badge with Diamonds, his signature represents the pinnacle of Luftwaffe fighter history. An essential piece for any serious collection of WWII aviation memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Günther Glasner

Leutnant Günther Glasner (26 August 1917, Drehnow/Brandenburg – 22 June 2012, Berlin/Brandenburg) was a highly decorated Luftwaffe airman who served as a Bordschütze (air gunner) during the Second World War. Over the course of the war, he flew an impressive 513 combat sorties, primarily with Lehrgeschwader 1 and later Kampfgeschwader 6.

Awards and Decorations

• Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe – 5 July 1941, as member of 9./Lehrgeschwader 1

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 13 August 1942, as Feldwebel, Stab III./Lehrgeschwader 1

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 31 December 1943, as Oberfeldwebel and Bordschütze, Stab/Kampfgeschwader 6

Knight’s Cross Citation

Glasner was awarded the Ritterkreuz for his outstanding performance during 410 combat sorties up to late 1943, many of them flown under the command of Hermann Hogeback, himself a Schwerterträger. Glasner’s accurate defensive gunnery and combat skill played a decisive role in the survival and success of Hogeback’s crews on numerous long-range bombing missions.

Career Highlights

• 513 combat sorties flown, a testament to his endurance and front-line service.

• Flew with Lehrgeschwader 1 (LG 1) during the critical early air campaigns.

• Later transferred to Kampfgeschwader 6 (KG 6), where he achieved his most notable distinction.

• Reached the rank of Leutnant by the end of his career.

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcard format

• Condition: Very good, bold signature

Collector’s Note

Günther Glasner belongs to the select group of Luftwaffe Knight’s Cross holders who served as Bordschützen rather than pilots. His career — flying over 500 sorties — underlines the often-overlooked but crucial role of bomber crews in the Luftwaffe’s campaigns. His association with Hermann Hogeback further elevates the historical value of his autograph, making it a significant acquisition for collectors of Luftwaffe memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Günther Glasner

Leutnant Günther Glasner (26 August 1917, Drehnow/Brandenburg – 22 June 2012, Berlin/Brandenburg) was a highly decorated Luftwaffe airman who served as a Bordschütze (air gunner) during the Second World War. Over the course of the war, he flew an impressive 513 combat sorties, primarily with Lehrgeschwader 1 and later Kampfgeschwader 6.

Awards and Decorations

• Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe – 5 July 1941, as member of 9./Lehrgeschwader 1

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 13 August 1942, as Feldwebel, Stab III./Lehrgeschwader 1

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 31 December 1943, as Oberfeldwebel and Bordschütze, Stab/Kampfgeschwader 6

Knight’s Cross Citation

Glasner was awarded the Ritterkreuz for his outstanding performance during 410 combat sorties up to late 1943, many of them flown under the command of Hermann Hogeback, himself a Schwerterträger. Glasner’s accurate defensive gunnery and combat skill played a decisive role in the survival and success of Hogeback’s crews on numerous long-range bombing missions.

Career Highlights

• 513 combat sorties flown, a testament to his endurance and front-line service.

• Flew with Lehrgeschwader 1 (LG 1) during the critical early air campaigns.

• Later transferred to Kampfgeschwader 6 (KG 6), where he achieved his most notable distinction.

• Reached the rank of Leutnant by the end of his career.

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcard format

• Condition: Very good, bold signature

Collector’s Note

Günther Glasner belongs to the select group of Luftwaffe Knight’s Cross holders who served as Bordschützen rather than pilots. His career — flying over 500 sorties — underlines the often-overlooked but crucial role of bomber crews in the Luftwaffe’s campaigns. His association with Hermann Hogeback further elevates the historical value of his autograph, making it a significant acquisition for collectors of Luftwaffe memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Herbert Fries

Leutnant Herbert Fries (1 March 1925, Waldmühlen – 6 January 2014, Rennerod-Emmerichenhain) was a Fallschirmjäger and one of the youngest recipients of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes during the Second World War. Serving as a gunner in the 2./Fallschirm-Panzerjäger-Abteilung 1, 1. Fallschirmjäger-Division, he earned the Knight’s Cross for extraordinary anti-tank actions in Italy.

Award and Citation

• Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 5 September 1944, as Gefreiter und Geschützführer in the 2./Fallschirm-Panzerjäger-Abteilung 1

• Citation: Recognized for his outstanding performance manning a Pantherturm defensive position on the Via Casilina near Piedimonte during the battles of May 1944.

  • 21.05.1944 – Destroyed 7 Allied tanks

  • 22.05.1944 – Destroyed 6 additional tanks

  • 24.05.1944 – Destroyed another 7 tanks

  • Total: 20 enemy tanks destroyed in just three days, decisively slowing Allied advances.

• After exhausting their position, Fries and his crew destroyed their turret (“Schlafmütze” / sleepyhead) and withdrew with the retreating German forces.

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Little Bit smaller than Postcardsize

• Condition: As seen, well-preserved signature

Collector’s Note

Herbert Fries is remembered as one of the notable anti-tank fighters of the Luftwaffe’s ground formations. His signature is scarce compared to other Ritterkreuzträger, particularly on large-format photos such as this example. An impressive and historically rich autograph, highly desirable for collectors of Fallschirmjäger and anti-tank warfare memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Herbert Fries

Leutnant Herbert Fries (1 March 1925, Waldmühlen – 6 January 2014, Rennerod-Emmerichenhain) was a Fallschirmjäger and one of the youngest recipients of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes during the Second World War. Serving as a gunner in the 2./Fallschirm-Panzerjäger-Abteilung 1, 1. Fallschirmjäger-Division, he earned the Knight’s Cross for extraordinary anti-tank actions in Italy.

Award and Citation

• Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 5 September 1944, as Gefreiter und Geschützführer in the 2./Fallschirm-Panzerjäger-Abteilung 1

• Citation: Recognized for his outstanding performance manning a Pantherturm defensive position on the Via Casilina near Piedimonte during the battles of May 1944.

  • 21.05.1944 – Destroyed 7 Allied tanks

  • 22.05.1944 – Destroyed 6 additional tanks

  • 24.05.1944 – Destroyed another 7 tanks

  • Total: 20 enemy tanks destroyed in just three days, decisively slowing Allied advances.

• After exhausting their position, Fries and his crew destroyed their turret (“Schlafmütze” / sleepyhead) and withdrew with the retreating German forces.

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcardsize

• Condition: As seen, well-preserved signature

Collector’s Note

Herbert Fries is remembered as one of the notable anti-tank fighters of the Luftwaffe’s ground formations. His signature is scarce compared to other Ritterkreuzträger, particularly on large-format photos such as this example. An impressive and historically rich autograph, highly desirable for collectors of Fallschirmjäger and anti-tank warfare memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Günther Frenzel

Leutnant Günther Frenzel (19 March 1919 – 12 March 2011) was a highly decorated Luftwaffe transport and special mission pilot of Kampfgeschwader zur besonderen Verwendung 1 (KG z.b.V. 1). He earned the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 23 December 1942 as Feldwebel und Staffelführer of 11. Staffel / KG z.b.V. 1, in recognition of his daring missions and exceptional skill as a transport pilot under the most dangerous conditions.

Awards and Decorations

• Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 23 December 1942 as Feldwebel und Staffelführer, 11./KG z.b.V. 1

• Various campaign and service awards (not detailed here)

Career Highlights

• ~200 Operational Flights: Frenzel accumulated around 200 combat missions, primarily in the Ju-52, often under heavy enemy fire.

• Stellar Navigation: Volunteered to locate a downed bomber crew deep in enemy territory, successfully navigating by the stars to rescue them.

• Captured Aircraft Operation: Took part in special operations flying captured Vickers Wellington bombers against Allied fuel depots in the Congo. On one such mission, he even landed at a Belgian-Congo airfield, refueled, and then bombed the same base.

• Escape from Captivity: Captured during Operation Crusader at Derna airfield, he escaped the same day with his flight mechanic by seizing their Ju-52 under British fire, taking off during a German air attack.

• Survivor of a Mass Shoot-Down: While flying across the Mediterranean, Frenzel’s transport was the only survivor out of 13 Ju-52s ambushed by British fighters. Despite being badly wounded and his aircraft heavily damaged, he kept it airborne for 45 minutes before crash-landing near the coast, saving all aboard. Field Marshal Albert Kesselring personally visited him in hospital to commend his bravery.

Item Details

• Type: Postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcardsize

• Condition: Good, with clear signature

Collector’s Note

Frenzel’s service stands out for the audacity and uniqueness of his missions: captured Allied bombers, daring escapes, and survival against overwhelming odds. His signature is a scarce and desirable addition to any collection focusing on Ritterkreuzträger, Luftwaffe transport units, or extraordinary air operations of WWII.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Konrad Fechner. Feldwebel Konrad Fechner (1 November 1918, Hofmeteln/Schwerin – 27 July 2013, Hahausen/Lower Saxony) was a highly decorated Luftwaffe ground-attack pilot, credited with flying over 726 combat missions during the Second World War. Serving primarily with Sturzkampfgeschwader 77 (StG 77) and later Schlachtgeschwader 77 (SG 77), Fechner flew both the Junkers Ju 87 Stuka and the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 in front-line service. His final mission took place on 8 May 1945, the very day of Germany’s capitulation.

Awards and Decorations

• Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe (Honor Goblet of the Luftwaffe) – 7 December 1942 as Unteroffizier, Flugzeugführer in 6./StG 77.

• Deutsches Kreuz in Gold (German Cross in Gold) – 17 April 1943 as Unteroffizier, Flugzeugführer in 6./StG 77.

• Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes (Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross) – 4 May 1944 as Feldwebel, Flugzeugführer in 6./SG 77, awarded for completing approximately 700 ground-attack sorties in the brutal fighting on the Eastern Front.

Career Highlights

• Frontline Service: Flew 726 combat missions, primarily in the close-support role against Soviet armor, artillery, and troop concentrations.

• Aircraft: Began flying the Ju 87 Stuka dive bomber, later transitioning to the Fw 190 F-series ground-attack fighter-bomber.

• Decorated Veteran: Progressed from the Ehrenpokal and the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold to the Knight’s Cross, reflecting his consistent performance and courage in combat.

• End of the War: Carried out his last combat sortie on 8 May 1945, symbolically closing his wartime career on the final day of hostilities in Europe.

Collector’s Note

Konrad Fechner stands among the notable Luftwaffe Schlachtflieger (ground-attack pilots), men who flew dangerous low-level missions against heavily defended targets. His record of over 700 sorties places him within the elite circle of decorated front-line veterans whose awards trace the escalation of their service. For collectors, Fechner’s name represents both the tenacity of the Luftwaffe’s close-support units and the high-risk, relentless combat endured by Stuka and Fw 190 pilots on the Eastern Front.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Hans Henrik “Hasse” Wind. Kapteeni Hans Henrik “Hasse” Wind (30 July 1919, Ekenäs † 24 July 1995, Tampere) was a Finnish fighter pilot and one of the nation’s most famous flying aces of the Second World War, credited with 75 confirmed aerial victories in 302 combat sorties. He is ranked as Finland’s second-highest scoring ace. A brilliant tactician and inspirational leader, Wind was one of only four Finnish pilots awarded the Mannerheim Cross twice.

Awards and Decorations

• Mannerheim Cross of Liberty 2nd Class (No. 69) – 31 July 1943

• Mannerheim Cross of Liberty 2nd Class (No. 144, 2nd Award) – 28 June 1944

• Iron Cross 2nd Class (Germany)

• Iron Cross 1st Class (Germany)

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold)

• Other Finnish and German campaign and service awards

Career Highlights

• Winter War (1939–40): Entered service as a reserve officer, but did not fly in combat due to aircraft shortages.

• Continuation War: Transferred to LeLv 24 in August 1941, flying the Brewster B-239 Buffalo, with which he scored 39 aerial victories.

• First victory: 22 September 1941, shooting down a Polikarpov I-15.

• Rising ace: By the end of 1942, credited with 14.5 kills; his total soared in 1943 with multiple engagements, including destroying three Il-2s (5 April 1943) and two Spitfires (14 April 1943).

• Promoted to Kapteeni (Captain) on 19 October 1943 at just 24 years old; temporarily withdrawn from front-line service to instruct and deliver his legendary “Lectures on Fighter Tactics”, used for decades in Finnish Air Force pilot training.

• Return to combat: February 1944, now flying the Messerschmitt Bf 109G, with which he scored another 36 kills.

• Soviet Summer Offensive (June 1944): Displayed unmatched skill; on 13 June 1944 he shot down four Pe-2 bombers in a single sortie. Between 15–25 June 1944, he achieved over 20 kills, including Yaks, La-5s, Spitfires, P-39 Airacobras, and DB-3 bombers.

• Severe wounds (28 July 1944): Attacked by overwhelming numbers of Yak-9s and P-39s, his aircraft was riddled with cannon fire. Despite heavy wounds to his left arm and severe aircraft damage, Wind managed to land safely—ending his combat career.

• Final tally: 75 confirmed victories (39 in the Brewster B-239, 36 in the Messerschmitt Bf 109G).

Item Details

• Authentic postwar signature of Kapteeni Hans Henrik “Hasse” Wind.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clean, sharp signature with strong presentation.

Collector’s Note

Wind’s combination of tactical genius, raw flying skill, and resilience under impossible odds makes his signature an outstanding addition to any aviation or WWII collection. His two Mannerheim Crosses, his reputation as an air combat instructor, and his legacy as one of Finland’s greatest aces ensure that items linked to him remain highly sought after. His 1944 combat record during the Soviet offensive remains one of the most remarkable displays of aerial success in such a short time frame in European air warfare.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Pierre-Henri Clostermann DSO, DFC & Bar. Pierre-Henri Clostermann (28 February 1921, Curitiba, Brazil – 22 March 2006, Montesquieu-des-Albères, France) was a French fighter ace of the Second World War, credited with between 15–33 aerial victories, depending on the source. Flying with the RAF’s Spitfire and Tempest squadrons, he became one of the most recognized Allied fighter pilots of the war, famously known as “France’s First Fighter” by Charles de Gaulle. His wartime memoir, Le Grand Cirque (The Big Show), remains one of the most celebrated aviation books of the conflict.

Awards and Decorations

• Grand Croix de la Légion d’Honneur (France)

• Compagnon de l’Ordre de la Libération – 21 January 1946

• Médaille Militaire

• Croix de Guerre 1939–45 with 27 citations (17 palms, 2 stars)

• Croix de la Valeur Militaire with 2 citations

• Médaille de la Résistance with rosette

• Médaille de l’Aéronautique

• Distinguished Service Order (DSO) – United Kingdom

• Distinguished Flying Cross & Bar (DFC & Bar) – United Kingdom

• Distinguished Service Cross (US Army) – United States

• Croix de Guerre (Belgium)

• Numerous foreign decorations from Morocco, Tunisia, Brazil, Denmark, and the Vatican

Career Highlights

• Early Aviation Training: Learned to fly in Brazil at 16, and later studied aeronautics in San Diego, USA, graduating as an aeronautical engineer and licensed pilot before joining the Free French in 1942.

• RAF Service: Served in No. 341 (Alsace) Squadron and later No. 602 Squadron RAF, flying Spitfires on offensive sweeps, bomber escorts, and Normandy landings air cover.

• First Victories: Scored his first aerial victories on 27 July 1943, destroying two Fw 190s over France.

• Tempest Ace: In December 1944 joined No. 274 Squadron RAF, later commanding A Flight, No. 3 Squadron RAF in the Hawker Tempest V “Le Grand Charles”, where he flew “rat scramble” missions against Me 262 jet fighters and led devastating ground-attack sorties.

• Combat Record: Flew 432 sorties, claiming 15–33 aerial victories, 225 motor vehicles, 72 locomotives, 5 tanks, and 2 E-boats destroyed.

• Author: Published Le Grand Cirque (The Big Show) in 1951, which became one of the most successful aviation memoirs of all time, praised by William Faulkner as “the finest aviation book to come out of World War II.”

• Postwar Career: Engineer at Renault and Reims Aviation, later elected youngest Member of the French Parliament (Assemblée Nationale). Re-enlisted briefly during the Algerian War (1956–57) as a ground-attack pilot.

• Later Controversy: In 1982, praised Argentine pilots’ bravery during the Falklands War, which drew criticism in Britain. In France, he was a noted critic of the 1991 Gulf War.

Item Details

• Authentic postwar signature of Pierre Clostermann.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Well-preserved and clear autograph.

Collector’s Note

Pierre-Henri Clostermann remains a legendary figure in aviation history: a Free French ace with RAF Tempests and Spitfires, bestselling author, engineer, and politician. His signature is especially sought-after by collectors of WWII aviation memorabilia, linking directly to one of the most iconic fighter pilots of the Allied cause.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Erich “Bubi” Hartmann. Major Erich Alfred “Bubi” Hartmann (19 April 1922, Weissach, Württemberg – 20 September 1993, Weil im Schönbuch, Germany) was the most successful fighter ace in aviation history, credited with an unparalleled 352 confirmed aerial victories on the Eastern Front. Known as “The Blond Knight of Germany”, Hartmann flew with Jagdgeschwader 52 (JG 52) and became one of the most decorated Luftwaffe fighter pilots of the Second World War. His skill, discipline, and survival across more than 1,400 combat missions earned him legendary status among pilots of all nations.

Awards and Decorations

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 17 October 1943

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 29 October 1943, as Leutnant and Flugzeugführer, 9./JG 52 (148 victories)

• Oak Leaves (Eichenlaub) – 2 March 1944, as Leutnant and Staffelkapitän, 9./JG 52 (200 victories)

• Swords (Schwerter) – 2 July 1944, as Oberleutnant and Staffelkapitän, 9./JG 52 (239 victories)

• Diamonds (Brillanten) – 25 August 1944, as Oberleutnant and Staffelkapitän, 9./JG 52 (301 victories)

• Pilot-Observer Badge in Gold with Diamonds (Gemeinsames Flugzeugführer- und Beobachterabzeichen mit Brillanten) – special presentation award

• Numerous additional decorations including the Iron Cross 1st and 2nd Class

Career Highlights

• Eastern Front Ace: Flew over 1,400 combat missions, engaging in aerial combat in nearly 825 of them.

• Unmatched Record: Credited with 352 confirmed kills, all against Soviet aircraft.

• Survival Tactics: Known for his strict discipline and patience in combat, avoiding unnecessary risks and striking with precision.

• Last Victory: Achieved his 352nd and final victory on 8 May 1945, just hours before Germany’s surrender.

• Postwar Captivity: Spent 10 years in Soviet captivity (1945–1955) before returning to West Germany.

• Postwar Career: Joined the newly formed Bundesluftwaffe (West German Air Force), where he commanded a fighter wing but later resigned due to political disputes over NATO standardization.

• Legacy: His name remains synonymous with aerial mastery, and he is celebrated as the most successful fighter ace in recorded history.

Item Details

• Authentic postwar signature of Major Erich “Bubi” Hartmann.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Good, clear autograph.

Collector’s Note

Hartmann’s autograph is among the most coveted in WWII aviation collecting. His record of 352 aerial victories is unmatched and will never likely be equaled. Decorated with the Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, Schwertern und Brillanten and the rare Pilot-Observer Badge with Diamonds, his signature represents the pinnacle of Luftwaffe fighter history. An essential piece for any serious collection of WWII aviation memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Georg von Gyldenfeldt. Generalmajor Georg von Gyldenfeldt (1 May 1897, Putz/West Prussia † 23 May 1977, Münster/North Rhine-Westphalia) was a career officer of the Luftwaffe who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. A seasoned artillery and flak officer, he commanded several anti-aircraft formations in the Luftwaffe and distinguished himself as a regimental commander.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Franz Reuss. Generalmajor Franz Reuss (17 April 1904, Augsburg † 5 June 1992, Munich) was a Luftwaffe officer who rose to the rank of Generalmajor during the Second World War. Initially serving in the Bavarian Landespolizei, he transferred to the Luftwaffe where he held several key staff and command positions, ultimately leading the 4. Flieger-Division. He distinguished himself in both operational planning and divisional command, earning high decorations including the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 21 August 1942, as Oberstleutnant im Generalstab, Stab IV. Fliegerkorps.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 18 July 1944, as Generalmajor and Kommandeur of 4. Flieger-Division.

Career Highlights:

• Began his military career in 1920 with the 1. Bayerisches Schützen-Regiment before joining the Bavarian Landespolizei.

• Transferred into the Wehrmacht in 1935, serving as a squadron leader with Reiter-Regiment 18.

• Completed General Staff training at the Heeres-Kriegsakademie in Berlin, later switching to the Luftwaffe.

• Served as Staffelkapitän in Kampfgeschwader 53 and later as Kommandeur of III./Kampfgeschwader 76 during the early years of the war.

• Worked extensively in Luftwaffe staff roles, including as Ia with IV. Fliegerkorps and later as Chief of Staff of II. Luftwaffen-Feldkorps.

• Took command of the 4. Flieger-Division in 1944, where his leadership earned him the Knight’s Cross.

• Captured by Allied forces in April 1945, remaining in captivity until January 1947.

• Lived in Munich until his death in 1992.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Franz Reuss.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Very good, clear autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Franz Reuss’s dual career as both a staff officer and divisional commander highlights the adaptability and experience of senior Luftwaffe leadership. His Knight’s Cross award as commander of the 4. Flieger-Division in 1944, combined with his earlier German Cross in Gold, places him among the decorated mid-level Luftwaffe generals of the war. This signed photograph is a fine addition to any collection focusing on Luftwaffe leadership and Knight’s Cross recipients.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Bruno Maass. Generalleutnant Bruno Maass (8 October 1893, Insterburg † 24 January 1973, Munich) was a professional officer who began his career in the Prussian Army before transferring to the air service in the First World War. He later became a senior Luftwaffe general, rising to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War.

Career Highlights:

• Entered service in 1911 with the 2. Leib-Husaren-Regiment “Königin Viktoria von Preußen” Nr. 2, promoted to Leutnant in 1912.

• Trained as a pilot in 1915, serving with Flieger-Abteilung 15 and Flieger-Abteilung 31 before becoming Adjutant of the Kommandeur der Flieger with Heeresgruppe “Woyrsch” and later 18. Armee.

• Postwar, continued his military career in the Reichswehr, serving with Reiter-Regiment 9 of the 2. Kavallerie-Division. Promoted to Rittmeister in 1921.

• Joined the Luftwaffe in 1933, holding staff and command roles, including Gruppenkommandeur of III./Kampfgeschwader 253.

• Served as Adjutant and later Chief of Staff, Luftgau-Kommando VII before joining the Luftwaffe General Staff.

• Appointed to the German Luftwaffe Mission in Romania in 1941; promoted to Generalmajor in August of that year.

• Later returned to Luftgau-Kommando VII, and from 1942 served as Reichsgericht Judge.

• In 1943, took over the Abteilung Flieger-Bodenorganisation in the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (later titled General der Fliegerbodenorganisation und des Flugbetriebes).

• Promoted to Generalleutnant on 1 January 1945, but released due to illness in February 1945.

• Captured by Allied forces in May 1945.

Postwar Life:

• Contributed to the German Air Force Monograph Project, producing detailed studies and analyses of the Luftwaffe’s organization and wartime operations, now preserved in the Bundesarchiv-Militärarchiv.

• Lived in Munich until his death in 1973.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Bruno Maass.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Although not a frontline combat commander, Maass played an important role in Luftwaffe staff, organizational, and training structures. His postwar contributions to the German Air Force Monograph Project make him a figure of enduring historical interest, especially for collectors focusing on Luftwaffe leadership and its postwar legacy.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gerhard Conrad. Generalleutnant Dipl.-Ing. Gerhard Conrad (21 April 1895, Pregelmühle/Alsleben, Saxony-Anhalt † 28 May 1982, Ruhpolding, Bavaria) was a Luftwaffe officer and engineer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant during the Second World War. He was decorated with the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership of a transport formation during the Western campaign in 1940.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 24 May 1940, as Oberst and Kommodore of Kampfgruppe zur besonderen Verwendung 2, 7. Flieger-Division, Luftwaffe.

  Awarded for his leadership and personal bravery during the planning and execution of airborne operations in the West. Conrad’s effective command of his transport formation was instrumental in the success of these air-landing missions.

Career Highlights:

• Entered military service during the First World War, later trained as an engineer.

• Rejoined the Luftwaffe, where he applied his technical expertise and leadership skills in command positions.

• As commander of Kampfgruppe zur besonderen Verwendung 2, played a critical role in supporting airborne operations with transport aircraft in 1940.

• Recognized with the Knight’s Cross for his contributions to the success of the German air-landing missions in the Western campaign.

• Rose to the rank of Generalleutnant in the Luftwaffe before the end of the war.

• Captured and later released from captivity, living in Bavaria until his death in 1982.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Gerhard Conrad.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Gerhard Conrad’s award of the Knight’s Cross for his leadership in early Luftwaffe airborne operations highlights his importance in the development of German air-landing tactics. His autograph is a desirable addition for collectors of Luftwaffe generals, paratroop/airborne operations, and Knight’s Cross recipients.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Dietrich Peltz. Generalmajor Dietrich Peltz (6 September 1914, Gießen † 10 August 2001, Munich) was one of the Luftwaffe’s most decorated bomber officers, rising to the rank of Generalmajor and earning the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. Recognized for his aggressive leadership in dive-bomber operations and later as a planner of strategic bombing raids, he became one of the youngest generals in the German armed forces.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 14 October 1940, as Oberleutnant with the Stab of Sturzkampfgeschwader 77.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 53rd award) – 31 December 1941, as Hauptmann and Kommandeur of II./ Sturzkampfgeschwader 77.

• Swords to the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves (Schwerter zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 33rd award) – July 1943, as Oberst im Generalstab and Angriffsführer England.

Career Highlights:

• Distinguished himself as a Stuka pilot and commander in the early campaigns, earning the Knight’s Cross in 1940.

• As Kommandeur of II./StG 77, led his group in intensive dive-bombing operations on the Eastern Front, where his effectiveness was recognized with the Oak Leaves in 1941.

• Later transferred to the Luftwaffe General Staff, becoming Angriffsführer England, tasked with planning and executing bomber raids against Britain in 1943, which earned him the Swords.

• Promoted rapidly due to his ability, he was one of the youngest officers to reach the rank of Generalmajor.

• Survived the war, later living in Munich until his death in 2001.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalmajor Dietrich Peltz.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Peltz’s combination of frontline combat command with Stuka units and his later role as a strategic bombing planner make him an especially interesting figure. His awards — the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords — place him among the most highly decorated Luftwaffe officers, making his signed photo a desirable addition for collectors of decorated bomber leaders and high-ranking Luftwaffe personalities.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Günther Rall. Major Günther Rall (10 March 1918 † 4 October 2009) was one of the most successful fighter aces in history, serving with Jagdgeschwader 52 on the Eastern Front and rising to the rank of Major during the Second World War. With 275 confirmed aerial victories, he remains the third highest-scoring fighter ace of all time.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 15 December 1941, as Oberleutnant with 8./Jagdgeschwader 52.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 4 September 1942, as Oberleutnant and Staffelkapitän of 8./Jagdgeschwader 52, after 65 aerial victories.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 122nd award) – 26 October 1942, as Oberleutnant and Staffelkapitän of 8./Jagdgeschwader 52 (over 100 victories).

• Swords to the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves (Schwerter zum Ritterkreuz mit Eichenlaub, 37th award) – 12 September 1943, as Hauptmann and Kommodore of III./Jagdgeschwader 52, credited with 200 aerial victories.

Career Highlights:

• Joined the Luftwaffe in the late 1930s, flying in France and the Battle of Britain before transferring to the Eastern Front.

• Achieved the bulk of his 275 victories against Soviet aircraft, making him one of the most formidable aces of the Eastern Front.

• Severely wounded in combat several times, yet returned to flying and command duties after each recovery.

• By 1943, as Kommodore of III./JG 52, he led some of the Luftwaffe’s top aces.

• Postwar, Rall joined the Bundesluftwaffe, rising to the rank of General and later serving as NATO’s Chief of the German Air Force Command Staff.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Major Günther Rall.

• Signed on a postcard-sized postwar photograph.

Collector’s Note:
Günther Rall’s autograph is one of the most sought-after among aviation collectors due to his incredible record of 275 victories and his high decorations up to the Schwerter. His postwar service in the Bundeswehr and NATO further adds to his significance, making this large-format signed photograph an exceptional piece for any serious collection of Luftwaffe or fighter ace memorabilia.

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Job Odebrecht. General der Flakartillerie Job Odebrecht (20 February 1892, Ehrenbreitstein † 20 November 1982, Bad Homburg vor der Höhe) was a senior Luftwaffe officer who rose to the rank of General der Flakartillerie. He commanded flak formations in both Germany and on active fronts, earning the German Cross in Gold and the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership of heavy anti-aircraft units.

Awards and Decorations:

• German Cross in Gold (Deutsches Kreuz in Gold) – 20 October 1942, as Generalmajor and commander of the 6. Flak-Division.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 5 September 1944, as General der Flakartillerie and Kommandierender General of II. Flak-Korps.

Career Highlights:

• A career artillery officer who transferred into the Luftwaffe, specializing in Flak (anti-aircraft) units.

• By 1942, commanded the 6. Flak-Division, earning the German Cross in Gold for his unit’s defensive performance against Allied air raids.

• Promoted to General der Flakartillerie and appointed Kommandierender General of II. Flak-Korps, where he directed large-scale flak operations in 1944.

• Captured at the war’s end and later released from captivity.

• Lived in West Germany until his death in 1982.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Flakartillerie Job Odebrecht.

• Signed on a large-format postwar photograph (17 × 12.4 cm).

• Condition: Clear, bold autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Odebrecht’s signature is highly valued among Luftwaffe collectors, particularly for his senior role in the Flak arm, which played a critical defensive role in the Reich during the Allied bombing campaign.