Gustav Harteneck – I. Kavallerie-Korps

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Gustav Harteneck. General der Kavallerie Gustav Harteneck (27 July 1892, Landau † 13 January 1984, München) was a German cavalry officer who rose to the rank of General der Kavallerie during the Second World War. A career soldier, he commanded the I. Kavallerie-Korps on the Eastern Front and was decorated with 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) – 20 March 1942, as Generalmajor in Armeeoberkommando 2.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 21 September 1944, as General der Kavallerie and Kommandeur of I. Kavallerie-Korps.

Career Highlights:

• Entered the Army before the First World War, serving in cavalry units.

• Continued his career in the interwar Reichswehr, advancing steadily through the officer ranks.

• During World War II, held senior staff and command posts before taking command of the I. Kavallerie-Korps, where he led his corps in defensive operations on the Eastern Front.

• Recognized for his leadership with the Knight’s Cross in 1944.

• Promoted to General der Kavallerie, one of the few to hold this historic cavalry rank in the later war years.

• Survived the conflict and captivity, later living in Munich until his death in 1984.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Kavallerie Gustav Harteneck.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.