Heinrich Eberbach – Panzer-Regiment 35 & Panzer-Brigade 5 (Eichenlaub)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Heinrich Eberbach. General der Panzertruppen Heinrich Eberbach (24 November 1895, Laufen am Neckar † 13 July 1992, Notzingen) was a career officer in the German Army who rose to the rank of General der Panzertruppen. A highly experienced armored commander, he led formations from regimental to corps level throughout the war, most notably on the Eastern Front and later in Normandy.

Awards and Decorations

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 4 July 1940, as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur of Panzer-Regiment 35

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub) – 31 December 1941, as Oberst and Kommandeur of 5. Panzer-Brigade

Career Highlights

• World War I Service: Entered the Imperial Army in 1914 and served throughout the First World War.

• Panzer Commander: Commanded Panzer-Regiment 35 in the 4. Panzer-Division during the campaign in France, earning the Knight’s Cross for his leadership.

• Eastern Front: As commander of 5. Panzer-Brigade, received the Oak Leaves for his role in early armored battles in Russia in 1941.

• High Command: Later commanded the 4. Panzer-Division, the XLI Panzer Corps, and in 1944 led Panzergruppe Eberbach during the Battle of Normandy, tasked with countering the Allied breakout.

• Postwar: Captured by British forces in 1944, held as a prisoner of war until 1948. After his release, lived in Baden-Württemberg until his death in 1992, aged 96.

Item Details

• Authentic postwar signature of General der Panzertruppen Heinrich Eberbach.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note

Heinrich Eberbach was one of the notable Panzer leaders of World War II, active both on the Eastern Front and in the West. His decorations—the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves—and his command of Panzergruppe Eberbach during the critical Normandy campaign make his autograph a sought-after item for collectors of armored warfare and high-ranking Wehrmacht commanders.