Walter Gerhold – Kleinkampf-Flottille 361 (Normandy!)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Walther Gerhold

Schreiber-Obergefreiter Walther Gerhold (8 June 1921 – 2 March 2013) was a Kriegsmarine sailor and recipient of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes for his daring action as a one-man torpedo operator with the Kleinkampfverbände.

Award and Citation

• Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes – 6 July 1944, as Schreiber-Obergefreiter und Einmanntorpedofahrer with Kleinkampf-Flottille 361.

• Citation:

  “The 23-year-old Schreiberobergefreiter Walter Gerhold, from Sauerland, is the first lone fighter from the Kriegsmarine to be awarded the Knight’s Cross for sinking a British cruiser of the Aurora-class under the most difficult conditions. Commanding his human torpedo, Gerhold passed six British destroyers at close range, broke through their security ring, and attacked a cruiser lying behind it with a skillful and calculated approach. The ship sank following a major boiler explosion. For his bravery before the enemy, Gerhold was also promoted to Schreibermaat.”

Item Details

• Type: Original postwar signed photograph

• Size: Postcard format

• Condition: Very good, clear autograph

Collector’s Note

Walther Gerhold holds a special place in Kriegsmarine history as the first one-man torpedo operator to be decorated with the Knight’s Cross. His bold solo mission against a heavily defended Royal Navy formation showcases the extreme risks undertaken by the Kleinkampfverbände (small battle units). Autographs from Gerhold are scarce, making this postcard an excellent addition for collectors of Kriegsmarine and naval special forces memorabilia.