Johann von Ravenstein – Schützen-Regiment 4 (Ritterkreuz & Pour le Mérite!)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Johann von Ravenstein. Generalleutnant Johann “Hans” Theodor von Ravenstein (1 January 1889, Strehlen † 26 March 1962, Duisburg) was a professional soldier whose career spanned both World Wars. A decorated officer of the First World War—awarded the Pour le Mérite in 1918—he rejoined the Army in 1934 and rose to prominence during the Second World War. As commander of Schützen-Regiment 4 he distinguished himself during the Battle of France, earning the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership in the crossing of the Meuse and the encirclement of French forces. In 1941, Ravenstein took command of the 5. leichte Division, later redesignated the 21. Panzer-Division, during the fighting in North Africa.

Captured in November 1941 during Operation Crusader, he became the first German general to fall into Allied hands in the Second World War. After years of captivity across Egypt, South Africa, Canada, and Wales, Ravenstein returned to Germany in 1947, resuming civilian work until his death in 1962.

Awards and Decorations

• Pour le Mérite – 1918, First World War.

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 3 June 1940, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Schützen-Regiment 4.

Award Citation:

“Oberst Johann von Ravenstein, along with his Schützen-Regiment, was instrumental in the crossing of the Meuse and the breakthrough of the Belgian fortifications. Under his personal leadership the tank and infantry forces of an enemy held town were eliminated or captured in an envelopment assault. Among the prisoners were elements of the French 9th Army’s staff.”

Career Highlights

• First World War: Served as an infantry officer on the Western Front; awarded the Pour le Mérite in 1918.

• Interwar Years: Worked in the private sector and later for the Duisburg city administration.

• Rejoined the Wehrmacht (1934): Rapidly promoted and given command responsibilities.

• Battle of France (1940): Led Schützen-Regiment 4 with distinction, earning the Knight’s Cross.

• North Africa (1941): Appointed commander of the 5. leichte Division, soon renamed the 21. Panzer-Division.

• Operation Crusader (Nov 1941): Captured by the New Zealand 21st Battalion; first German general captured by the Allies in WWII.

• Postwar: Released from captivity in 1947, worked again for the city of Duisburg until his death in 1962.

Item Details

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Johann von Ravenstein.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear, well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note

Ravenstein’s legacy is tied both to his battlefield leadership in France and North Africa and to his status as the first German general captured by the Allies. His dual decorations—Pour le Mérite in WWI and Knight’s Cross in WWII—make his autograph particularly desirable for collectors focused on highly decorated officers who served in both world wars.