Karl Kreutz – SS-Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 2 “Das Reich” (Eichenlaub)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Karl Kreutz. SS-Standartenführer Karl Kreutz (20 September 1909 † 27 July 1997) was a decorated artillery commander of the Waffen-SS who rose to the rank of SS-Standartenführer during the Second World War. He distinguished himself as commander of the SS-Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 2 “Das Reich”, earning both the Knight’s Cross and later the Oak Leaves for his leadership in some of the war’s final and fiercest battles.

Awards and Decorations:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 27 August 1944, as SS-Standartenführer and Kommandeur of SS-Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 2, 2. SS-Panzer-Division “Das Reich”.

• Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross (Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, 857th award) – 6 May 1945, as SS-Standartenführer and Kommandeur of SS-Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 2, 2. SS-Panzer-Division “Das Reich”.

  Awarded for further distinction during the fighting in the Ardennes, Hungary, and especially in Vienna. In Vienna, Kreutz’s artillery took up direct fire positions at a vital crossroads to halt Soviet breakthrough attempts. During the retreat, his regiment acted as the rearguard of the Division—a rare and exceptional role for an artillery unit—earning him recognition for his outstanding leadership.

Career Highlights:

• Joined the Waffen-SS and advanced through the artillery branch, eventually taking command of SS-Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 2 “Das Reich.”

• His regiment supported the division in numerous battles across the Eastern and Western Fronts.

• Recognized with the Knight’s Cross in 1944 for his leadership in France during the Normandy and subsequent fighting.

• Decorated with the Oak Leaves in the final days of the war for his extraordinary handling of the regiment in the Ardennes Offensive, in Hungary, and during the defense of Vienna.

• Survived the war and lived in Germany until his death in 1997.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of SS-Standartenführer Karl Kreutz.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear and well-preserved autograph.

Collector’s Note:
Kreutz’s signature is highly desirable for collectors of Waffen-SS and 2. SS-Panzer-Division “Das Reich” history. His rare distinction of earning the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves as an artillery commander—especially for his regiment’s rearguard role in Vienna—makes this an exceptional addition to any advanced collection.