Gerhard Fischer – Panzer-Regiment 23 (23. Panzer-Division)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gerhard Fischer. Major Gerhard Fischer (4 December 1915 – 9 August 2014) was a decorated German Panzer officer of the 23. Panzer-Division during the Second World War. A front-line tank commander, he rose through the ranks to company command and earned high recognition for his leadership and combat achievements on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations

• Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes (Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross) – 28 December 1943 as Oberleutnant and Chef of 8. Kompanie / Panzer-Regiment 23, 23. Panzer-Division.

• Panzerkampfabzeichen V. Stufe (Tank Battle Badge, 100 engagements) – Awarded for exceptional front-line service and endurance as a Panzer officer.

Career Highlights

• Eastern Front Service: Fought in the hard defensive battles of the 23. Panzer-Division, particularly during the retreat phases of 1943.

• Company Commander: As chief of 8. Kompanie, Fischer distinguished himself by leading his unit with determination in heavy Panzer actions.

• Ritterkreuz Recognition: Awarded for personal bravery and outstanding leadership in armored combat, making him one of the division’s most noted Panzer officers.

• Longevity: Survived the war and lived to the age of 98, one of the longest-lived Knight’s Cross holders of the Panzertruppe.

Item Details

• Type: Postwar signed photograph.

• Size: Postcardsize.

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

Collector’s Note

Gerhard Fischer represents the seasoned Panzer officers who endured years of hard fighting on the Eastern Front. His combination of the Ritterkreuz and the rare Panzerkampfabzeichen 100 underlines both his personal courage and his extensive frontline service. A scarce and desirable signature for collectors of Panzer and Ritterkreuz memorabilia.