Wilhelm Thomas – Infanterie-Regiment 71 (29. Infanterie-Division)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Paper of Wilhelm Thomas. Generalleutnant Wilhelm Thomas (8 October 1892 † 24 August 1976) was a career officer in the German Army who rose to divisional command during the Second World War. He earned the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for his leadership on the Eastern Front.

Award:

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) – 13 October 1941, as Oberst and Kommandeur of Infanterie-Regiment 71, 29. Infanterie-Division (mot.).

Career Highlights:

• Served as a young officer in the First World War and continued his career in the interwar Reichswehr.

• Distinguished himself during the invasion of the Soviet Union as commander of Infanterie-Regiment 71, part of the 29. Infanterie-Division (mot.), earning the Knight’s Cross in October 1941.

• Later promoted to Generalleutnant, commanding multiple infantry divisions on the Eastern Front during the later stages of the war.

• Captured in 1945 and held in Allied captivity before returning to Germany.

• Lived in postwar Germany until his death in 1976.

Item Details:

• Authentic postwar signature of Generalleutnant Wilhelm Thomas.

• Signed on a postwar photograph.

• Condition: Clear autograph, well-preserved.