WWII German Press Photo – Ritterkreuzträger Hauptmann d.R. Erich Darnedde – Grenadier-Regiment 277
Original German Second World War press photograph depicting Ritterkreuzträger Hauptmann der Reserve Erich Darnedde, an infantry battalion commander of the German Army (Heer).
The portrait shows Darnedde wearing the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes), Germany’s premier award for battlefield bravery and military leadership. The reverse retains its original wartime typed press caption and press markings, including the issue date 26 August 1943 and image reference number 4 122 313.
Darnedde was awarded the Knight’s Cross on 8 February 1943 while serving as commander of the I. Bataillon, Grenadier-Regiment 277, part of the 83. Infanterie-Division on the Eastern Front. His decoration recognized outstanding leadership during the intense defensive battles fought by German infantry formations during the winter campaigns of 1942–1943.
Original press photographs of identified Knight’s Cross recipients remain among the most sought-after categories of German WWII militaria, particularly when the recipient can be positively linked to a specific unit and award.
Condition
- Original wartime press photograph.
- Original typed caption attached to reverse.
- Period press markings visible.
- Minor age toning and handling wear consistent with age.
- Overall very good historical condition.
- Press photo size: 13×18 cm
Sold on commission.
€90,00
In stock
In stock
Details
Statement
Wolfgang Historica is a trusted seller with years of experience and consistently positive reviews. We are always interested in purchasing collections or unique objects and also offer a professional consignment service. Buy with confidence.
Historical Description
Erich Darnedde was born on 14 December 1906 in Gandersheim, Braunschweig, Germany. During the Second World War he served as an officer in the German Army and rose to the rank of Major der Reserve.
At the time of his Knight’s Cross award, Darnedde held the rank of Hauptmann der Reserve and commanded the 1st Battalion of Grenadier Regiment 277, a component of the 83rd Infantry Division. The division was heavily engaged in combat on the Eastern Front, where German infantry units faced sustained Soviet offensives under extremely difficult conditions.
For his leadership in combat, Darnedde received the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross on 8 February 1943, one of the highest military decorations awarded by Germany during the war.
This photograph was released to the German press on 26 August 1943, several months after the award, as part of the official wartime news and propaganda service that publicized decorated servicemen to newspapers and magazines throughout the Reich.
