Gerhard Matzky – 21. Infanterie-Division

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gerhard Matzky. Generalleutnant Gerhard Matzky (19 March 1894, Küstrin † 9 June 1983, Bad Godesberg) was a career officer who rose to the rank of Generalleutnant in the Wehrmacht during the Second World War. He earned the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross in 1944 for his leadership of the 21. Infanterie-Division on the Eastern Front.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 5 April 1944, as Generalleutnant and Kommandeur of 21. Infanterie-Division.

Career Highlights:

• Served as a young officer in World War I and remained in the Reichswehr during the interwar years.

• Rose through the ranks of the Wehrmacht, holding various command positions.

• As commander of the 21. Infanterie-Division, he distinguished himself in defensive battles on the Eastern Front, earning the Knight’s Cross.

• After the war, he was taken prisoner and later released, continuing to live in West Germany.

• In 1956, joined the Bundeswehr, serving until his retirement, making him one of the senior Wehrmacht generals who also played a role in rebuilding Germany’s postwar armed forces.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Gerhard Matzky.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Matzky’s dual career as a Knight’s Cross holder and later a Bundeswehr general makes his autograph particularly interesting. His leadership of the 21. Infanterie-Division on the Eastern Front and his later contribution to the rebuilding of Germany’s military provide collectors with a valuable link between the Wehrmacht and postwar Bundeswehr.