Wilhelm Walther Attended the Wedding of His Comrade

Oberleutnant Wilhelm Walther (Führer I.Bataillon / Lehr-Regiment "Brandenburg" z.b.V. 800) at the wedding of Oblerleutnant Dr. Hans-Albrecht Herzner in December 1940. In August 1939, Leutnant Herzner led the first Abwehr commando raid in Poland. He was compelled to withdraw after a brief action, having learned that the planned German invasion was not underway after all, but had been postponed until September 1939.

Source :
"Brandenburger: Wartime Photographs of Wilhelm Walther" by Anthony Rogers

Heer Ritterkreuz Award Ceremony

1940

Ritterkreuz award ceremony for Oberleutnant Wilhelm Walther (Stosstruppführer in 4.Kompanie / Baulehrbataillon z.b.V. 800) which were held after the end of the Battle of France, summer 1940. Walther received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 24 June 1940 for capturing a strategic bridge at Gennep during the assault on the Netherlands. Leading an 8-man team disguised as Dutch military police escorting German prisoners, they made their assault seizing the bridge and disabling the detonators. Other pictures from this award ceremony can be seen HERE.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1943

Walter Neitzel (1913–1944), a highly decorated officer in the German Heer during World War II, earned his Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes (Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross) through decisive leadership and personal bravery on the Eastern Front. Born on May 9, 1913, in Greifenberg, Pomerania, Neitzel, serving as Hauptmann and temporary commander (Führer) of the I. Battalion, Grenadier-Regiment 409 (part of the 122nd Infantry Division), distinguished himself in fierce defensive fighting near Ssemkina Goruschka in May 1943. At 02:00 on May 25, Soviet forces penetrated the right sector of the neighboring II. Battalion with two companies, creating a dangerous threat to the German flank. Neitzel swiftly organized and led a vigorous counterthrust with elements of his battalion; by 07:30, his forces had restored the line, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy—199 counted Soviet dead and 33 prisoners—while sustaining only four wounded in his own command. This action exemplified the close-quarters infantry combat and rapid maneuver typical of mid-war Eastern Front engagements, where small-unit leadership often turned the tide against numerically superior Red Army assaults. For this success, which stabilized the divisional sector amid the grueling battles around Leningrad and the Volkhov Front, Neitzel was awarded the Knight's Cross on June 2, 1943. In the Wehrmacht's tradition, the award ceremony for such a prestigious decoration—typically presented by a higher commander in the field or at a divisional headquarters shortly after the formal announcement—would have been a solemn yet morale-boosting event, with Neitzel likely standing before assembled troops or fellow officers as the black-white-red ribbon and silver-framed cross were pinned to his tunic, accompanied by a citation reading his deeds and perhaps a brief address honoring his "extreme battlefield bravery." Such ceremonies reinforced the cult of heroic leadership in the German army, often involving handshakes, salutes, and photographs for propaganda purposes, though frontline realities meant they were frequently austere affairs amid ongoing combat. Neitzel continued to excel, later earning the Eichenlaub (posthumously, as the 576th recipient on September 5, 1944, as Major) for a breakout action south of Riga in August 1944, but he succumbed to wounds received on August 26 and died on September 2, 1944, near Kaikasi, Latvia, at age 31; he was posthumously promoted to Oberstleutnant. His Ritterkreuz action and recognition underscored the intense, attritional nature of infantry command on the Ostfront, where individual initiative amid overwhelming odds defined the fate of many units.

Source :
"Brandenburger: Wartime Photographs of Wilhelm Walther" by Anthony Rogers

The 700th Mission of Stuka Ace Theodor Nordmann

Ritterkreuzträger Oberleutnant Theodor Nordmann (Gruppenkommandeur III.Gruppe / Sturzkampfgeschwader 1), serving as a dive-bomber pilot in the central sector of the front, recently returned safely from his 700th combat mission. The daring 24-year-old pilot has held the Ritterkreuz since August 1941. He has already flown in France, England, the Mediterranean, Crete, and Africa. The picture was taken on 12 February 1943 by Kriegsberichter Knittel.

On 12 February 1943, amid the frozen expanses of the Eastern Front, Hauptmann Theodor “Theo” Nordmann, commander of III./Sturzkampfgeschwader 1 (StG 1), touched down after a combat sortie that marked a rare milestone in Luftwaffe history. Ground crews and fellow airmen gathered at the airfield to celebrate his 700th operational mission (Feindflug). Bundesarchiv photographs from that exact date (notably Bild 183-B23442) capture the scene: a young but battle-hardened pilot stepping from his Junkers Ju 87 Stuka, greeted with the traditional Luftwaffe honors reserved for such achievements—bouquets of flowers, enthusiastic handshakes, and the camaraderie of men who understood the grim odds of dive-bombing survival.

This was no ordinary landing. By early 1943, Nordmann had already emerged as one of the Luftwaffe’s premier Stuka aces. His 700th mission came at a critical juncture in the war on the Eastern Front, just weeks after the fall of Stalingrad and during the intense fighting around Kharkov. The ceremony was both a morale booster for his unit and public recognition of one of the most demanding flying careers in aviation history.

Source :
https://www.bild.bundesarchiv.de/dba/en/search/?yearfrom=&yearto=&query=theodor+nordmann#

The 600th Mission of Stuka Ace Theodor Nordmann

 

In the sweltering summer of 1942, as German forces clashed with the Red Army in the bloody battles around the Orel salient on the Eastern Front, one young Luftwaffe pilot etched his name into Stuka legend. Oberleutnant Theodor “Theo” Nordmann, Staffelkapitän of 8. Staffel / Sturzkampfgeschwader 1 (8./StG 1), climbed out of his battle-scarred Junkers Ju 87 after completing his 600th operational sortie, 22 August 1942. He became the first Stuka pilot in the entire Luftwaffe to reach this extraordinary milestone!

The occasion was marked by a heartfelt welcoming ceremony on the forward airfield, a brief but emotional pause amid the unrelenting grind of the Eastern Front campaign. Ground crews, fellow pilots, and unit officers gathered around the aircraft as Nordmann taxied in, engines still ticking as they cooled. Bouquets of flowers—scavenged from local fields or brought from rear-area supply runs—were thrust into his hands. Handshakes, back-slaps, and cheers echoed across the dusty dispersal area. A small toast with whatever schnapps or captured Soviet vodka was available sealed the moment. It was a ritual repeated in many Luftwaffe units for milestone flights, but this one carried special weight: 600 combat missions in a slow, vulnerable dive-bomber against increasingly determined Soviet defenses was a feat of survival, skill, and sheer endurance few could match.

Source :
https://www.bild.bundesarchiv.de/dba/en/search/?yearfrom=&yearto=&query=theodor+nordmann#

The 1111th Mission of Stuka Ace Theodor Nordmann

On a warm day in August 1944, Hauptmann Theodor Nordmann, the commanding officer of the second group of Schlachtgeschwader 3, stepped from the cockpit of his Focke-Wulf Fw 190 fighter-bomber after touching down on a forward airfield at Spilve, Riga (Latvia). Ground crew and fellow pilots immediately surrounded him, presenting a large floral wreath adorned with a prominent white sign that read “1111. Feindflug” along with a bouquet of fresh flowers. One comrade held a small wooden plaque shaped like a house with a silhouette of an aircraft marked by a cross, a symbolic tally of the milestone just achieved. Nordmann, still wearing his flight jacket and leather gloves, smiled as he accepted the honors, the wreath momentarily placed on the aircraft’s canopy before being carried away in celebration. The moment, captured in photographs that have since become historical records, marked the completion of his one thousand one hundred and eleventh combat sortie, an extraordinary feat even among the Luftwaffe’s most experienced Schlachtflieger.

Theodor Nordmann was born on 18 December 1918 in Dorsten, Westphalia, the sixth of eight children in a family that would see him grow into one of the most decorated dive-bomber and ground-attack pilots of the Second World War. He joined the Luftwaffe in November 1937, initially training as a reconnaissance pilot before transferring in March 1940 to the carrier-intended 1. Staffel of Trägergruppe 186, which flew the Junkers Ju 87 Stuka. The unit was soon redesignated and integrated into Sturzkampfgeschwader 1, where Nordmann flew conventional bombing missions over France and Britain in 1940, earning both classes of the Iron Cross that year. By 1941 his group had moved to the Mediterranean, where he claimed the sinking of a 5,000-ton merchant vessel during operations against Malta. That autumn, after roughly 190 sorties and the destruction of twenty Soviet tanks on the Eastern Front, he received the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross.

Nordmann’s operational pace intensified during the grueling campaigns in the East. In the summer of 1942, as Staffelkapitän of 8. Staffel of StG 1, he reached his 600th combat mission over the Orel sector, becoming the first Stuka pilot to achieve that milestone. On 1 February 1943 he flew his 700th sortie, and in March of that year he was awarded the Oak Leaves to the Knight’s Cross. By April 1944, now serving as Gruppenkommandeur of II. Gruppe of Schlachtgeschwader 3 after a brief period of test flying, he had completed his 1,000th mission. The transition from the Ju 87 to the more versatile Fw 190 had begun, allowing the unit to continue its punishing close-support role against Soviet armor and supply lines. Nordmann personally accounted for the destruction of approximately eighty enemy tanks and the sinking or damaging of 43,000 gross register tons of shipping across his career, figures that underscored the lethal effectiveness of the Schlachtflieger in supporting the German army’s desperate defensive battles.

Reaching 1,111 sorties placed Nordmann in rare company. Very few pilots in any air force during the war accumulated such a staggering number of combat flights, particularly in the high-risk environment of low-level ground attack where anti-aircraft fire and fighter interception claimed many lives. The celebration on that August day was not merely ceremonial; it reflected the Luftwaffe’s tradition of honoring exceptional endurance and leadership. The wreath and plaque, traditional symbols used for milestone flights, were presented with genuine respect by men who understood the constant danger Nordmann had faced day after day. He continued flying after the event, and on 17 September 1944 he was awarded the Swords to the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves, the 98th such decoration of the war, after approximately 1,140 missions.

By the final months of the conflict Nordmann had been promoted to major and had flown nearly 1,300 combat missions in total, roughly 200 of them in the Fw 190. On 19 January 1945, while operating near Insterburg in East Prussia, his aircraft collided in poor weather with that of his wingman, Oberfeldwebel Sroka. Both pilots were killed instantly. Nordmann was thirty-six years old. His death came just weeks after his marriage and at a time when the Eastern Front was collapsing under overwhelming Soviet pressure. The 1,111th-mission celebration, preserved in those black-and-white images of flowers, smiles, and the handwritten sign on the wreath, stands as a poignant snapshot of a pilot who had pushed the limits of human endurance in one of history’s most demanding aerial roles.

Major Theodor Nordmann (Gruppenkommandeur II.Gruppe / Schlachtgeschwader 3 (SG 3) being greeted with a bouquet on reaching a landmark 1111th sortie (one thousand one hundred and eleven) at Spilve, Riga (Latvia), August 1944. The picture wasw taken by Kriegsberichter Seidat and was first published on 13 September 1944.

Major Theodor Nordmann (Gruppenkommandeur II.Gruppe / Schlachtgeschwader 3 (SG 3) being greeted with a bouquet on reaching a landmark 1111th sortie (one thousand one hundred and eleven) at Spilve, Riga (Latvia), August 1944. Picture above from Hans Schuh's article on Nordmann's Feldpostbriefe in Luftwaffen Revue. Nordmann's Fw 190 F-8 via expired Ebay auctions.



Major Theodor Nordmann (Gruppenkommandeur II.Gruppe / Schlachtgeschwader 3 (SG 3) being greeted with a bouquet on reaching a landmark 1111th sortie (one thousand one hundred and eleven) at Spilve, Riga (Latvia), August 1944. A rare image from expired ebay auctions. Note the diving crow emblem used by I./StG 1 and II./StG 3 that became I./SG 1 and II./SG 3 in October 1943, and then converted to Fw 190 respectively around December 1943 and June 1944.



Major Theodor Nordmann (Gruppenkommandeur II.Gruppe / Schlachtgeschwader 3 (SG 3) being greeted with a bouquet on reaching a landmark 1111th sortie (one thousand one hundred and eleven) at Spilve, Riga (Latvia), August 1944. A rare image from expired ebay auctions.

The latest Exito Decals 'pack' release features Nordmann's Kommandeur II./SG 3 Fw 190 F-8 as illustrated by Janusz Swaitlon and based on the photos reproduced here. This new Exito decal set is entitled 'Luftwaffe Ground Attackers vol.1' and covers three different German assault aircraft. As usual with Exito you get a nice decal set of new "first-time" subjects, full colour A-4 glossy prints of each "subject" and detailed colour camouflage discussion as the artist explains how he arrived at his "colour decisions".

Sources:
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodor_Nordmann
www.falkeeins.blogspot.com/2019/05/hptm-theo-nordmann-kommodore.html
www.tracesofwar.com/persons/25331/Nordmann-Theodor.htm
www.lexikon-der-wehrmacht.de/Personenregister/N/NordmannT.htm
Ritterkreuzträger records and contemporary Luftwaffen Revue articles referenced in secondary sources.

Eichenlaub Award Ceremony for Max Wünsche

The proud expression on the face of the SS panzer regiment commander Max Wünsche was clearly visible as he received the Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes #548 for his extraordinary dedication in battle, especially since it was pinned on him by the top SS leaders, with the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler in attendance. From left to right: SS-Oberführer Kurt Meyer (Kommandeur 12. SS-Panzer-Division "Hitlerjugend"), SS-Obersturmbannführer Max Wünsche (Kommandeur SS-Panzer-Regiment 12 / 12.SS-Panzer-Division "Hitlerjugend"), SS-Obergruppenführer und General der Waffen-SS Josef "Sepp" Dietrich (Kommandierender General I. SS-Panzerkorps), Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler, and another "Meyer", SS-Sturmbannführer Hubert Meyer (Ia Erster Generalstabsoffizier 12. SS-Panzer-Division "Hitlerjugend"). The photo was taken on August 11, 1944.

Source :
https://alifrafikkhan.blogspot.com/2012/08/foto-kurt-panzermeyer-meyer.html

Ritterkreuz Award Ceremony for Hermann Weiser

March 28, 1943, in Kharkov, Ukraine: SS-Obersturmbannführer Kurt Meyer (Kommandeur SS-Aufklärungs-Abteilung 1 / SS-Panzergrenadier-Division "Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler") awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes to SS-Obersturmführer der Reserve Hermann Weiser (November 22, 1918 - March 21, 1970), Führer 2.Kompanie / SS-Aufklärungs-Abteilung 1 / SS-Panzergrenadier-Division "Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler". On the far right is SS-Standartenführer Dr.med. Hermann Besuden (Führer SS-Sanitäts-Abteilung 1), recipient of the Deutsches Kreuz in Silber (January 10, 1945), who was also from the Leibstandarte. Weiser served in the Meyer reconnaissance battalion during the battle for Kharkov, where he demonstrated impressive achievements and bravery on many occasions. His leadership in the brutal struggle while besieged in the Kharkov school building played a crucial role in the safety of the troops he commanded.

Source :
https://alifrafikkhan.blogspot.com/2012/08/foto-kurt-panzermeyer-meyer.html

Ritterkreuz Award Ceremony for Gerardus Mooyman

SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman, Geschützführer in 14.Kompanie (Panzerjäger) / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”, received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 20 February 1943. On 13 February 1943, nineteen-year-old Mooyman, serving as a gunner (Richtschütze) with a captured French PAK 97/38, performed one of the most remarkable feats of individual bravery on the Eastern Front. His unit was dug in east of Mga, a critical sector roughly 50 km southeast of Leningrad and close to the frozen shores of Lake Ladoga. The Dutch and Norwegian volunteers of the Legion, subordinated to Infanterie-Division 170 and XXVI. Armeekorps, faced repeated Soviet assaults during the Red Army’s winter offensives aimed at relieving pressure on Leningrad and smashing through German lines toward the Volkhov River.

The day began with a massive Soviet armoured thrust. Waves of T-34 medium tanks, supported by infantry, rolled forward across the snow-covered fields and through narrow forest corridors that channelled the attack straight into the Dutch anti-tank positions. Mooyman’s gun crew opened fire at close range. With icy precision, the young Dutch gunner knocked out seven T-34s in the morning fighting alone. Shell after shell slammed into the Soviet tanks; some exploded in fireballs, others slewed sideways with tracks blown off or turrets jammed. The German and Dutch defensive fire, combined with Mooyman’s deadly accuracy, repelled the first wave.

During the engagement, however, his Geschützführer (gun commander) was killed by Soviet return fire. Without hesitation, Mooyman assumed command of the gun and its remaining crew, directing fire and loading himself when necessary. The position was now critically exposed.

As night fell over the snow-blanketed battlefield, the crew spotted movement in the darkness. Russian pioneers were silently digging in an anti-tank gun only a short distance in front of the Dutch lines, clearly intending to knock out Mooyman’s PAK at first light. Realising the mortal danger to his comrades, Mooyman grabbed a bundle of explosives (a bursting charge), crawled forward alone through the freezing snow under the cover of darkness, and placed the charge directly on the enemy gun. He detonated it in a thunderous explosion that destroyed the Russian PAK and its crew, eliminating the immediate threat without a single shot being fired from his own weapon.

The next morning and into the afternoon of 13 February, the Soviets launched yet another ferocious armoured assault. Again the T-34s came rumbling forward, engines roaring, guns barking. Mooyman’s gun crew, now under his direct leadership, met them head-on. In the renewed fighting he personally accounted for six more T-34s, bringing his tally for that single day to thirteen enemy tanks destroyed. The cumulative pressure from the four Dutch anti-tank guns in the sector helped shatter the Soviet attack; the surviving T-34s withdrew, leaving the snow littered with burning wrecks.

In just a few days of combat around Mga (including an earlier engagement in early February where Mooyman had already destroyed four T-34s), his gun was credited with nineteen Soviet tanks. For the decisive actions of 13 February 1943, which single-handedly helped hold the line against overwhelming odds, Mooyman was recommended for the highest German decoration.

On 20 February 1943, barely a week later, he became the first non-German soldier in the entire Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS to receive the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes. The award was formally presented for “the destruction of thirteen enemy tanks in a single day of combat while taking command of the gun after the death of its leader and personally eliminating an enemy anti-tank gun at night.” He also received the Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse (4 February 1943) and Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse (10 February 1943) in rapid succession for the same fighting.

By the end of his service on the Eastern Front, Mooyman was officially credited with twenty-three tank kills. Nazi propaganda immediately turned the teenage Dutch volunteer into a poster boy for foreign recruitment: newspapers, magazines, and newsreels across occupied Europe carried his story, and Heinrich Himmler personally congratulated him.

These vivid details come directly from contemporary unit accounts and post-war historical sources. The snow, the close-range duels, the silent night crawl with explosives, and the relentless Soviet tank waves all combined to create one of the most dramatic single-soldier anti-tank epics of the war, forever linking the name Gerardus Leonardus Mooyman with the first foreign Ritterkreuz.

SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) with his PaK comrades in the Ritterkreuz award ceremony, February 1943. Photo by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.

Generalleutnant Johann Sinnhuber (Kommandeur 28.  Jäger-Division) and SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) inspecting the troops during Ritterkreuz award ceremony for Mooyman, February 1943. Photo by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.

SS-Brigadeführer Fritz von Scholz (Kommandeur SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) congratulates SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) for his Ritterkreuz award, February 1943. Photo by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.

Same occasion: SS-Brigadeführer Fritz von Scholz (Kommandeur SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) congratulates SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) for his Ritterkreuz award, February 1943. Photo by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.



SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) proudly posing with his newly awarded Ritterkreuz, February 1943. Photo by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.




SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) proudly posing with his newly awarded Ritterkreuz in front of a captured French PAK 97/38 that he used during the action in the previous weeks.

Arrival at the Soldatenheim (soldiers' home), where the comradeship evening in honor of the new Ritterkreuzträger (Knight's Cross recipient), SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooymann, is taking place. In the back seat with Mooyman is SS-Brigadeführer Fritz von Scholz (Kommandeur SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”). The picture was taken in February 1943 by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.

SS-Brigadeführer Fritz von Scholz (Kommandeur SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) invites SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) to a social evening at the soldatenheim (soldiers' home). The picture was taken in February 1943 by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.

SS-Brigadeführer Fritz von Scholz (Kommandeur SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”), proposes a toast to the first Ritterkreuzträger (Knight's Cross recipient) from the Germanic countries, SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooymann. The picture was taken in February 1943 by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.



SS-Sturmmann Gerardus Mooyman (Geschützführer in 14.Panzerjäger-Kompanie / SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”) reporting about his action to SS-Brigadeführer Fritz von Scholz (Kommandeur SS-Freiwilligen-Legion “Nederland”), at a social evening at the soldatenheim (soldiers' home). The picture was taken in February 1943 by SS-Kriegsberichter Reinsberg.

Source :
Die Deutsche Wochenschau Nr. 654 - 17 March 1943
https://beeldbankwo2.nl/nl/beelden/?mode=gallery&view=horizontal&q=mooyman&rows=1&page=1&record=f32abb22-025a-11e7-904b-d89d6717b464
https://www.bild.bundesarchiv.de/dba/de/search/?yearfrom=&yearto=&query=mooyman#

Heinz Guderian and Hitlerjugend

Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (center, Chef des Generalstabes des Heeres) and Reichsjugendführer Arthur Axmann (right) at the Hitlerjugend display wall construction. The picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Theodor Scheerer in East Prussia, 6 September 1944.

On the anniversary of the "deutschen Freiheitskampfes" (German fight for freedom), Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (Chef des Generalstabes des Heeres) made a soldierly appeal to the Hitlerjugend of East Prussia, who had proven themselves in the Redoubt. They gathered around the proven troop leader and loyal collaborator of the Führer and listened to the rousing words addressed to them by Generaloberst Guderian and Reichsjugendführer Axmann, in the midst of the youth who were ready for action.

Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (second from left, Chef des Generalstabes des Heeres) and Reichsjugendführer Arthur Axmann (left) during the inspection of Hitlerjugend boys. The picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Theodor Scheerer in East Prussia, 6 September 1944.

Hitlerjugend members digging trenches in East Prussia. The picture was taken during the visit of Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (Chef des Generalstabes des Heeres), 6 September 1944.

Source :
Bundesarchiv Bild 183-J27583
Bayerische Staatsbibliothek (Image-No.: 70375775)
https://audiovis.nac.gov.pl/obraz/46907/3ea37ace93acdc6afb4c22cb76d97fbc/

Heinz Guderian in Smolensk

Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (facing the camera, Befehlshaber Panzergruppe 2) in front of his staff quarters in Smolensk, Eastern Front. The picture was taken during the Unternehmen Barbarossa, German invasion of Soviet Union, August-September 1941.

Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (Befehlshaber Panzergruppe 2) in Smolensk, Eastern Front. The picture was taken during the Unternehmen Barbarossa, German invasion of Soviet Union, August-September 1941.

Source :
https://www.allworldwars.com/Flank-Defense-in-Far-Reaching-Operations-by-Heinz-Guderian.html

Josef Kulot with DRK Nurses

On the left is DRK volunteer Liselotte Maaßen, bearer of the Eisernes Kreuz II.Klasse with a ladies' ribbon. This was awarded to her after she had brought around 150 wounded soldiers into a train under Russian fire so that they could be rescued. Sitting in the chair is Josef Kulot from Herten, who received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 24 September 1942 as Obergefreiter and Gruppenführer in 6.Kompanie / II.Bataillon / Infanterie-Regiment 60 (motorisiert) / 16.Infanterie-Division (motorisiert) "Windhund".

Source :
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=537613305456271&set=a.174351391782466

Erwin Rommel Visits Goebbels Children

 

Generalfeldmarschall Erwin Rommel visits Magda Goebbels, wife of Nazi Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels, and her children on the Goebbels estate in 1943, during a break in assignments, September 1942. Mrs. Goebbels and Marshal Rommel pose in her garden. She holds the family dog while she and Rommel hold the hands of her youngest daughter, Heidrun. Magda, Rommel and Alfred-Ingemar Berndt watch as one of the Rommel military aides plays on a slide with the older Goebbels children. The Goebbels daughter, Helga, and the son, Helmut, both go down the slide. A photographer moves to a better vantage point in background. Marshal Rommel and Magda Goebbels both help Heidrun go down the slide. Rommel smiles and lifts up one of the daughters. He joins in a bit as the children play.

After a discussion with Benito Mussolini in Rome on 24 September 1942, Generalfeldmarschall Erwin Rommel (Oberbefehlshaber Panzerarmee "Afrika") flew to Germany in the afternoon. Rommel was then a celebrity guest of the Goebbels family in their retreat villa at Bogensee, located in Berlin, Isle of Schwanenwerder, Inselstraße nr 8. After the war only ruins remained there and the villa was was ransacked first by Soviet, then by American soldiers. It was demolished and replaced by Aspen Institute.

On 26 September 1942 Rommel drove to the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, where Hitler presented him his Field Marshal' s baton.

Source :
https://www.buyoutfootage.com/pages/titles/pd_dc_568.php#bottom_synopsis
https://www.criticalpast.com/video/65675066074_Field-Marshal-Rommel_Rommels-wife_Nazi-officer-slides_sliding-down-a-ramp
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=98884&hilit=rommel+goebbels+children
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cj6fOIWL8E0

Gille and Schönfelder Chats with SS Wiking's New Ia from Army

In this picture, SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (right, Kommandierender General IV. SS-Panzerkorps) and his Chief of Staff, SS-Obersturmbannführer Manfred Schönfelder (center) speak with the new First General Staff Officer (Ia) of the 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking", German Army Major im Generalstab Otto Kleine. This photo was taken early August 1944 by SS-Untersturmführer Günther Lange, Gille’s new O5 Begleitoffizier.

Source :
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=117712273488879&set=a.111160687477371

Theodor Tolsdorff being Congratulated after Receiving the Eichenlaub

Major Theodor Tolsdorff (Kommandeur I.Bataillon / Füsilier-Regiment 22 / 1.Infanterie-Division) being congratulated at home after awarded the Eichenlaub for his Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes. Tolsdorff received the Eichenlaub #302 on 15 September 1943 for his achievements during the Third Battle of Lake Ladoga (22 July - 23 August 1943), which taking place on both sides of the Kirov railway. Tolsdorff and his battalion were assigned a section of line to defend. They not only succeeding in holding their own positions for 14 days, but also managed to throw back Soviet forces that broke through in the neighbouring one. In all these battles Tolsdorff led from the front in both offense and defense.

Major Theodor Tolsdorff (Kommandeur I.Bataillon / Füsilier-Regiment 22 / 1.Infanterie-Division) being congratulated at home after awarded the Eichenlaub for his Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes.

Major Theodor Tolsdorff (Kommandeur I.Bataillon / Füsilier-Regiment 22 / 1.Infanterie-Division) being congratulated at home after awarded the Eichenlaub for his Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes.

Source :
http://www.1infanterie-division.de/hofmeisterir22album.htm
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=159818&p=1403236&hilit=tolsdorff#p1403236
https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/1049/Tolsdorff-Theodor.htm

Ritterkreuz Award Ceremony with Hitler

 -1939-


Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes to Kapitänleutnant Günther Prien (Kommandant U-47) in Reichs Chancellery, Berlin, on 18 October 1939. After the successful Scapa Flow infiltration by U-47, Prien returned to Germany on 17 October to instant fame. Prien and his crew were flown to Berlin aboard Hitler's personal aircraft. At the Reich Chancellery the following day, Hitler awarded Prien the Ritterkreuz. Nazi propaganda exploited the success and gloated over damaged British morale. Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-1940-

20 July 1940 in Reichskanzlei: Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberste Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) posed with General der Gebirgstruppe Eduard Dietl (Kommandierender General Gebirgskorps "Norwegen"),  who wears here the just awarded Eichenlaub (Oak Leaves) to the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes (Knight's Cross of the Iron Crosses). After the successful end of the battle on the Norwegian Narvik, he was the first soldier of the Wehrmacht who received this award, one day previously (19 July 1940). On that day, Dietl also got promoted from Generalleutnant to General der Infanterie / General der Gebirgstruppe. The picture was taken by photographer from Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann, and first Published in 'Berliner Morgenpost' (21 July 1940 edition).

25 September 1940 : Major Adolf Galland (Geschwaderkommodore Jagdgeschwader 26) chats with Adolf Hitler after Galland received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub (Knight's Cross of the Iron Crosses with Oak Leaves) directly from the Führer at Reichskanzlei, Berlin/ Galland was the third person who received the coveted medal after Eduard Dietl and Werner Mölders. The picture itself was first published in "Berliner Morgenpost", 27 September 1940 edition.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-1941-

Award ceremony in Reichskanzlei, Berlin, 25 March 1941: Adolf Hitler (Führer und Reichskanzler) decorates Generalleutnant Erwin Rommel (Kommandeur 7. Panzer-Division) with Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub #10 (Knight's Cross with the Iron Crosses Nr.10). The man in the picture is Hitler's clossest ally, Benito Mussolini.

Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) receives Obergefreiter Hubert Brinkforth from Schützen-Regiment 25 / 12.Panzer-Division in the Reichskanzlei, Berlin, on Friday, 4 April 1941. Brinkforth is most notable for being the first enlisted man to be awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes (Knight's Cross of the Iron Crosses). Prior to the restoration of the Eisernes Kreuz in 1939, most awards of German major medals for bravery were made to officers and the nobility. This award was designed to be given without regard rank or position. He was awarded the medal for his actions as a Schütze in 14.Kompanie (Panzerjäger) / III.Bataillon / Infanterie-Regiment 25 (motorisiert) / 2.Infanterie-Division (motorisiert) on 27 May 1940 during the Battle of France, when he destroyed nine British tanks near Huppy using his PAK 36 anti-tank gun. This action earned him mention in the Wehrmachtbericht: "An der Südfront wurden einzelne mit Panzern geführte feindliche Angriffe an der unteren Somme abgewiesen. Dabei wurden dreißig feindliche Panzer vernichtet, allein neun hiervon durch den Schützen Brinkforth" (On the southern front, lone enemy attacks with tanks were repulsed on the lower Somme. Here thirty enemy tanks were destroyed, nine of them by Schütze Brinkforth). Promotion to Gefreiter and the immediate award of the Eisernes Kreuz II. Klasse followed. General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein (Kommandierender General XXXVIII. Armeekorps) nominated him for the Ritterkreuz, which was awarded on 7 March 1941 (received on 1 April 1941 from Generalmajor Josef Harpe, Commander of 12. Panzer-Division) along with the Eisernes Kreuz I. Klasse and a promotion to Obergefreiter. Brinkforth later was killed in action on 5 June 1942 during a Soviet artillery attack near Pogostje, Leningrad Oblast. He was also awarded the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz, Panzerkampfabzeichen, Medaille Winterschlacht im Osten 1941/42 (Ostmedaille), and was promoted to Unteroffizier shortly before his death.

Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) at Eichenlaub award ceremony for Oberst Kurt-Jürgen Freiherr von Lützow (Kommandeur Infanterie-Regiment 89 / 12.Infanterie-Division) which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 26 October 1941. This picture was taken by unknown photographer from Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann and was published by 'Berliner Morgenpost' on 4 January 1942. Oberst Lützow received the Eichenlaub #37 for his Ritterkreuz on 21 October 1941 for his actions during Operation Barbarossa. After breaking through the Soviet border security lineeast of Schoßbach, Lützow led his Regiment in a 65 km march that reached the attack objective of Szeszupa. Later, during the attack on Kowno, he and his Regiment formed a bridgehead over the Njemen while capturing two forts despite having had to fight through bitter resistance by Soviet Kyrgyzstani and Tatar regiments. On the 15-16 July 1941 the Regiment especially distinguished itself near Putoschka. Finally, after hard fighting, the Regiment reached the line Nikitina—Kokotschina and from here were able to repel all tank-supported Soviet breakthrough attempts. This last victory was of special importance for securing the encirclement of several Soviet divisions near Nevel.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-1942-


Eichenlaub award ceremony for three Kriegsmarine officers which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze, Rastenburg, on 1 january 1942 (and was first published on 12 January 1942). From left to right: Kapitän zur See Karl-Jesko von Puttkamer (Marine-Adjutant beim Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), Kapitän zur See Bernhard Rogge (Kommandant Hilfskreuzer "Atlantis". Received the Eichenlaub #45 on 31 December 1941 for having sunk/captured a grand total of 22 merchant ships with 145,697 GRT and travelled 110,000 nautical miles over the course of 655 days with his ship), Kapitänleutnant Heinrich Lehmann-Willenbrock (Kommandant U-96. Received the Eichenlaub #51 on 31 December 1941 for further successes with his ship over the course of another five war patrols, during which he sunk another 10 ships with 58,746 GRT), and Oberleutnant zur See Reinhard Suhren (Kommandant U-564. Received the Eichenlaub #56 on 31 December 1941 for three successful patrols during which he sunk 10 ships with 28,324 GRT - including the British corvette "Zinnia" on 23 August 1941 - and damaged a further 2 with 11,596 GRT). Ironically enough, Rogge was one of the highest decorated jews, and he had been also a member of the KPD (communist party of Germany)! His membership card is displayed, together with an uniform, at the museum in Hamburg.

Generalmajor Josef Harpe (Kommandeur 12. Panzer-Division) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub #55 from the hand of Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), on the award ceremony held at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze (Rastenburg/East Prussia), early January 1942. Harpe already got the award announcement from 31 December 1941. He had been awarded the Ritterkreuz previously on 13 August 1941 (as Generalmajor and Kommandeur 12. Panzer-Division), and would received the Schwerter #36 for his Ritterkreuz and Eichenlaub on 15 September 1943 as General der Panzertruppe and Kommandierender General XXXXI.Panzerkorps. This picture was first published in 'Deutsche Allgemeine Zeitung', 21 January 1942 edition.



The new Eichenlaubrträger met with Hitler at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze, 30 January 1942. The recipients are, from left to right: Generalmajor Hans Jordan (Eichenlaub #59 on 16 January 1942 as Oberst and Kommandeur Infanterie-Regiment 49 / 28. Infanterie-Division), Oberst Karl Eibl (Eichenlaub #50 on 31 December 1941 as Oberst and Kommandeur Infanterie-Regiment 132 / 44.Infanterie-Division), Major Günther Hoffmann-Schönborn (Eichenlaub #49 on 31 December 1941 as Major and Kommandeur Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 191 "Büffel"), Rittmeister Georg Freiherr von Boeselager (Eichenlaub #53 on 31 December 1941 as Rittmeister and Chef 1.Schwadron / Aufklärungs-Abteilung 6 / 6.Infanterie-Division), and Oberleutnant Karl-Heinz Noak (Eichenlaub #63 on 16 January 1942 as Oberleutnant and Chef 1.Kompanie / Panzerjäger-Abteilung 137 / 137.Infanterie-Division), Photograph by Heinrich Hoffmann (1885–1957).

Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberste Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) awarded the Schwertern Grosse Urkunde (certificate for the medal of Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern) to General der Panzertruppe Erwin Rommel (Befehlshaber Panzergruppe Afrika), in Führerhauptquartier Vinnitsa, Ukraine. The picture was taken in 25 March 1942, while the medal itself had been given previously in 20 Januari 1942.

Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) chats with two Luftwaffe fighter aces, Leutnant Adolf Dickfeld (left, Flugzeugführer in 7.Staffel / III.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 52) and Leutnant d.R. Hermann Graf (Staffelkapitän 9.Staffel / III.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 52), who just both receives the Eichenlaub and Schwerter respectively. Dickfeld received the Eichenlaub #94 on 19 May 1942 for 101 aerial victories, while Graf received the Eichenlaub #93 and Schwerter #11 on 17 and 19 May 1942 for 104 and 106 aerial victories. The picture was taken at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 8 June 1942.

23 September 1942 in Führerhauptquartier Vinnitsa, Ukraine: Major Gordon Gollob (Geschwaderkommodore Jagdgeschwader 77) receives the highest German award from Adolf Hitler (Führer und oberste Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) as the third soldier of the Wehrmacht: Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub, Schwertern und Brillanten (Knight's Cross of the Iron Crosses with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds). Gollob himself received the news from 30 August 1942, and he got the Brillanten after becoming the first pilot in history who reached 150 fliegerabschüsse (air victories)!

This picture was taken by Heinrich Hoffmann, and it shows Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) ceremonially awards the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub, Schwertern und Brillanten to Major Hermann Graf (Staffelkapitän 9.Staffel / III.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 52). The ceremony were held at the Führerhauptquartier Werwolf in Vinnitsa, Ukraine, on 7 October 1942. Luftwaffe fighter ace Hermann Graf formally received the Brillanten on 16 September 1942 after achieving 172 aerial victory. Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-1943-


Schwerter and Eichenlaub award ceremony for two brilliant Wehrmacht officers who excelled in warfare, which was held at the Berghof Obersalzberg on March 31, 1943. This photo shows when Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) shook hands with Generalmajor Georg-Wilhelm Postel (Kommandeur 320. Infanterie-Division), who earned the Eichenlaub #215 for his Ritterkreuz. Meanwhile, behind Postel wearing a black Panzertruppen uniform and giving a salute is Oberst der Reserve Hyazinth Strachwitz von Groß-Zauche (Kommandeur Panzer-Regiment "Großdeutschland"), who earned Schwerter #27 for his Ritterkreuz. On the same day and place, but at a different hour, was the awarding ceremony of the Schwerter #26 medal for SS-Obergruppenführer und General der Waffen-SS Josef "Sepp" Dietrich (Kommandeur SS-Panzergrenadier-Division "Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler").


Eichenlaub award ceremony for Heer officers, awarded by Adolf Hitler at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze, Rastenburg, April 1943. The recipients are, from left to right: Oberst Ernst Nobis (Kommandeur Jäger-Regiment 204 / 97.Jäger-Division. Eichenlaub #151 on 5 December 1942), Oberst Hans Mikosch (Kommandeur Pionier-Regiment-Stab z. b. V. 677. Eichenlaub #201 on 6 March 1943), Hauptmann der Reserve Dr.rer.oec. Eberhard Zahn (Chef 2.Kompanie / Panzerjäger-Abteilung 33 / 15.Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #204 on 6 March 1943), Hauptmann Helmut Hudel (Kommandeur I.Abteilung / Panzer-Regiment 7 / 10.Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #219 on 2 April 1943), and Leutnant der Reserve Bruno Kohnz (Zugführer in 11.Kompanie / III.Bataillon / Jäger-Regiment 207 / 97.Jäger-Division. Eichenlaub #207 on 6 March 1943). Behind Hitler is his adjutant from Heer, Oberstleutnant Gerhard Engel, who would also receives the Ritterkreuz and Eichenlaub one year later after he went to the front.

5 April 1943: From left to right: Oberstleutnant Gerhard Engel (Adjutant des Heeres und Verbindungsoffizier des Heeres zu Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Keitel (Chef des Oberkommando der Wehrmacht), Generalleutnant Rudolf Schmundt (Chefadjutant des Heeres beim Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), Generale di Brigata Efisio Marras (Head of the Italian Mission in connection with the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht), Generale d'Armata Italo Gariboldi (Commander Italian Army in Russia), and unknown Italian Generale di Divizione. The picture was taken by Presse-Hoffmann photographer at the Ritterkreuz award ceremony for Gariboldi, held in Berghof Obersalzberg. Gariboldi already received the radio/telegram news for his award from 1 April 1943.

Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulates the new recipients of Eichenlaub zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes during award ceremony which were held at the Große Halle, Berghof (Obersalzberg), 16 April 1943. In this occasion, there were 14 members of the Wehrmacht (7 from the Heer, 6 from the Luftwaffe and 1 from the Waffen-SS) who got the honor to came to Berghof and have an audience with Hitler. This picture shows, from left to right: Hauptmann Walter Scheunemann (Kommandeur I.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 272 / 93.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #202 on 6 March 1943), Oberleutnant der Reserve Josef Bremm (Chef 5.Kompanie / II.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 426 /126.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #165 on 23 December 1942), Hauptmann der Reserve Heinrich Schüler (Kommandeur II.Bataillon / Grenadier-Reimengt 525 / 298.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #218 on 2 April 1943), Hauptmann Peter Frantz (Kommandeur Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung "Großdeutschland" / Infanterie-Division "Großdeutschland" [motorisiert]. Eichenlaub #228 on 14 April 1943), Oberleutnant Werner Baumgarten-Crusius (Führer I.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 156 [motorisiert] / 16.Infanterie-Division [motorisiert]. Eichenlaub #199 on 27 February 1943), Oberfeldwebel Rudolf Schlee (Zugführer in 6.Kompanie / II.Bataillon / Gebirgsjäger-Regiment 13 / 4.Gebirgs-Division "Enzian". Eichenlaub #222 on 6 April 1943), Unteroffizier der Reserve Georg Rietscher (shaking hands with Hitler. Vorwärtser Beobachter in 14.Kompanie / III.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 513 / 294.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #210 on 14 March 1943), Oberstleutnant Paul-Werner Hozzel (Geschwaderkommodore Sturzkampfgeschwader 2 "Immelmann". Eichenlaub #230 on 14 April 1943), Major Werner Streib (Gruppenkommandeur I.Gruppe / Nachtjagdgeschwader 1. Eichenlaub #197 on 26 February 1943), Oberleutnant Theodor Nordmann (Gruppenführer III.Gruppe / Sturzkampfgeschwader 1. Eichenlaub #214 on 17 March 1943), Oberleutnant Hans Ulrich Rudel (Staffelkapitän 1.Staffel / I.Gruppe / Sturzkampfgeschwader 2 "Immelmann". Eichenlaub #229 on 14 April 1943), Hauptmann Egon Mayer (Gruppenkommandeur III.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 2 "Richthofen". Eichenlaub #232 on 16 April 1943), Hauptmann Georg Dörffel (Gruppenführer I.Gruppe / Sturzkampfgeschwader 1. Eichenlaub #231 on 14 April 1943), and SS-Standartenführer Hinrich Schuldt (Kommandeur SS-Brigade "Schuldt". Eichenlaub #220 on 2 April 1943). It is worth noting that all the Heer members were photographed by the famous photographer Tita Binz in her own studio and photos were later published by the Film Foto Verlag company for its series dealing with Ritterkreuzträger.



Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulating Heer officers for their newly awarded Eichenlaub of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes. The picture was taken at the Führerhauptquartier Wolffschanze on 15 September 1943. The recipients are, from left to right: Oberst Paul Schultz (blocked by Hitler, Kommandeur Grenadier-Regiment 308 / 198.Infanterie-Division, Eichenlaub #284 on 26 August 1943), Oberst der Reserve Dr.med.dent. Walter Lange (Kommandeur Grenadier-Regiment 43 / 1.Infanterie-Division, Eichenlaub #300 on 13 September 1943), Major Theodor Tolsdorff (Kommandeur I.Bataillon / Füsilier-Regiment 22 / 1.Infanterie-Division, Eichenlaub #302 on 15 September 1943), Oberst Günther Pape (Kommandeur Panzergrenadier-Regiment 394 / 3.Panzer-Division, Eichenlaub #301 on 15 September 1943), and Major der Reserve Dr.med.dent. Franz Bäke (Kommandeur II.Abteilung / Panzer-Regiment 11 / 6.Panzer-Division, Eichenlaub #262 on 1 August 1943). Interestingly, two out of the five officers who depicted in this picture are certified dentists (Lange and Bäke)! Other pictures from this ceremony can be seen HERE.



From left to right: SS-Standartenführer Heinz Harmel (Kommandeur SS-Panzergrenadier Regiment "Deutschland" / SS-Panzergrenadier-Division "Das Reich"), SS-Obersturmbannführer Otto Baum (Kommandeur SS-Panzergrenadier-Regiment 5 “Totenkopf” / SS-Panzergrenadier-Division "Totenkopf"), Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), and Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler (Chef der SS und deutschen Polizei). The picture was taken in October 1943 during the Eichenlaub award ceremony for Harmel and Baum, which were held at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia. Harmel formally received the Eichenlaub #296 on 7 September 1943, while Baum received the Eichenlaub #277 on 22 August 1943. In this picture, you can see the bandage still wrapped around Harmel's injured neck, a wound he received on the battlefield on 2 October 1943. This photo itself was taken from the book "On the Field of Honor: A History of the Knight's Cross Bearers" by John R. Angolia.



Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulates and shakes hands with SS-Hauptsturmführer Erwin Meierdrees (Kommandeur I.Abteilung / SS-Panzer-Regiment 3 "Totenkopf" / SS-Panzergrenadier-Division "Totenkopf") during the audience which were held at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, 13 October 1943. Abteilungskommandeur Meierdrees received the Eichenlaub #310 on 5 October 1943 for his many heroic deeds during the Battle of Kursk and the months after that. The other recipients of the Eichenlaub in Totenkopf were (in order of awarding): Theodor Eicke, Georg Bochmann, Otto Baum, Hermann Priess, Karl Ulrrich, Helmut Becker, Max Simon, and Fritz Biermeier.



Brillanten award ceremony for Hauptmann Walter Nowotny (Gruppenkommandeur I.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 54) which were held at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze, Rastenburg (East Prussia), on 20 October 1943. The medal was presented by Adolf Hitler in his capacity as Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht. Luftwaffe fighter ace Walter Nowotny formally received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub, Schwerter und Brillanten #8 on 19 October 1943 after became the first person in history who scores 250 aerial victories. After the award ceremony, Nowotny immediately went on a short vacation to Vienna before returning to his front-line unit.



Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) received two officers from 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking" who had just awarded the Eichenlaub for their Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes. In this picture - taken at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, in November 1943 - the Führer shakes hands with SS-Sturmbannführer Hans Dorr (Kommandeur I.Bataillon / SS-Panzergrenadier-Regiment "Germania" / 5.SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking"), while at left stands SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking"). Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.



Special audience with Hitler for the new Eichenlaubträger of the Heer, which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, late December 1943. In this occasion, four officers of the Wehrmacht was congratulated by the Führer for their recent award and achievements. From left to right: Generalmajor Hasso von Manteuffel (Kommandeur 7. Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #332 on 23 November 1943), Oberst Ernst Wellmann (Kommandeur Panzergrenadier-Regiment 3 / 3.Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #342 on 30 November 1943), Oberst Willy Langkeit (Kommandeur Panzer-Regiment 36 / 14.Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #348 on 7 December 1943), Oberstleutnant Karl Baacke (Kommandeur Grenadier-Regiment 266 / 72.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #352 on 10 December 1943), and Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht). Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-1944-


Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulates SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking") during the award ceremony for "Cherkassy Heroes" which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 20 February 1944. At left is another recipient, SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"), while at right is SS-Brigadeführer und Generalmajor der Waffen-SS Hermann Fegelein (Verbindungsoffizier der Waffen-SS zum Führerhauptquartier) and Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler (Chef der SS und deutschen Polizei). Other pictures and video from this occasion can be seen HERE.


The reception ceremony for the new Eichenlaub and Schwerter recipients from the Wehrmacht, held at Hitler's vacation home at the Berghof, Obersalzberg, in the end of March 1944. This photo shows Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) greeting the heroic German officers one by one. They are, from left to right: Generalmajor Eduard Hauser (Kommandeur 13. Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #376 on 26 January 1944), Generalmajor Dr.rer.pol. Hermann Hohn (Führer 72. Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #410 on 1 March 1944), Oberstleutnant der Reserve Dr.med.dent. Rudolf Kolbeck (wearing eyepatch, Kommandeur Grenadier-Regiment 316 / 212.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #403 on 22 February 1944), Oberstleutnant der Reserve Hans Joachim Kahler (Kommandeur Panzergrenadier-Regiment 5 / 12.Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #355 on 17 December 1943), Oberstleutnant Robert Kaestner (Führer Grenadier-Regiment 105 / 72.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #401 on 21 February 1944), and Hauptmann der Reserve Walter Mix (Kommandeur II.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 174 / 81 Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #405 on 22 February 1944). Actually on that day there were 13 officers who had an audience with Hitler. The other seven officers who do not appear in this photo are: Generalmajor Wend von Wietersheim (Kommandeur 11. Panzer-Division. Schwerter #58 on 26 March 1944), General der Infanterie Friedrich Mieth (Kommandierender General IV. Armeekorps. Eichenlaub #409 on 1 March 1944), General der Panzertruppe Erich Brandenberger (Kommandierender General XXIX.Armeekorps. Eichenlaub #324 on 12 November 1943), General der Artillerie Robert Martinek (Kommandierender General XXXIX. Panzerkorps. Eichenlaub #388 on 10 February 1944), General der Artillerie Helmuth Weidling (Kommandierender General XXXXI. Panzerkorps. Eichenlaub #408 on 22 February 1944), Generalleutnant Werner Forst (Kommandeur 106. Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #407 on 22 February 1944), and Generalleutnant Smilo Freiherr von Lüttwitz (Kommandeur 26. Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #426 on March 16, 1944). Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.

The Eichenlaub award ceremony for three outstanding Heer members, which held on 14 May 1944 at the Führerhauptquartier Berghof Obersalzberg (Münich), and was presented directly by Adolf Hitler (Führer und oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht). The recipients are, from left to right: Oberst der Reserve Werner Mummert (Kommandeur Panzergrenadier-Regiment 103 / 14.Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub # 429 dated 20 March 1944), Leutnant der Reserve Josef Schneider (Führer 13.Kompanie / III.Bataillon / Jäger-Regiment 207 / 97.Jäger-Division. Eichenlaub # 389 dated 10 February 1944), and Oberfeldwebel Johann Schwerdfeger (Zugführer at 1.Kompanie / I.Bataillon / Jäger-Regiment 228 / 101.Jäger-Division. Eichenlaub # 474 dated 14 May 1944).

Generalleutnant Hasso von Manteuffel (Kommandeur Panzergrenadier-Division "Grossdeutschland") meeting with Hitler at Berghof Obersalzberg on 14 May 1944 on the occasion of receiving a Schwerter #50 for his Ritterkreuz, which he formally received since 22 February 1944. Von Manteuffel was a very tiny man as can be clearly seen in this photo! Note the "Großdeutschland" cuff title on his right sleeve: von Manteuffel commanded this elite Army panzer division on the Eastern Front from February to September 1944. Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.



Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) shaking hands and congratulates Hauptmann d.R. Hogrebe for his newly awarded Eichenlaub. On 25 May 1944 Hitler welcomes nine Wehrmacht officers - who just recently receives the higher grade of Ritterkreuz - in his retreat in Berghof Obersalzberg. They were, from left to right: Generalleutnant Dietrich von Saucken (Kommandeur 4. Panzer-Division. Schwerter #46 on 31 January 1944), Generalleutnant Georg-Wilhelm Postel (Kommandeur 320. Infanterie-Division. Schwerter #57 on 26 March 1944), Oberst Franz Griesbach (Kommandeur Grenadier-Regiment 399 / 170.Infanterie-Division. Schwerter #53 on 6 March 1944), General der Artillerie Maximilian Fretter-Pico (Kommandierender General XXX. Armeekorps. Eichenlaub #368 on 16 January 1944), Generalleutnant Friedrich Schulz (mit der Führung beauftragt III. Panzerkorpa. Eichenlaub #428 on 20 March 1944), Generalmajor Ernst-Günther Baade (Kommandeur 90. Panzergrenadier-Division. Eichenlaub #402 on 22 February 1944), Oberst Herbert Schwender (Kommandeur Grenadier-Regiment 45 / 21.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #442 on 6 April 1944), Oberstleutnant Heinz Wittchow von Brese-Winiary (Kommandeur II.Bataillon / Panzergrenadier-Regiment 108 / 14.Panzer-Division. Eichenlaub #441 on 6 April 1944), and Hauptmann der Reserve Heinrich Hogrebe (Kommandeur II.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 422 / 126.Infanterie-Division. Eichenlaub #454 on 13 April 1944). The signature is belong to Von Brese-Winiary. Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.



Schwerter award ceremony for Oberstleutnant Theodor Tolsdorff (Kommandeur Grenadier-Regiment 1067 / Heeresgruppe Mitte) with Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, between 18-20 July 1944. Tolsdorff rerecived the Schwerter #80 for his Ritterkreuz on 18 July 1944 for his achievements during the Soviet operation Bagration, where he took over command of a scratch force of alert and leave companies, Grenadier-Regiment 1067. He was first ordered to break through to the garrison at Vilnius, which he succeeded in doing (on the way rescuing a German field hospital with 3,000 wounded men). He then took part in the city's defense, later breaking out with other units when a narrow corridor had been created by German relief forces. He and his men had distinguished themselves during the time they defended the city, so much so that Tolsdorff was christened "The Lion of Vilnius" by German propaganda!


Eichenlaub award ceremony for SS-Standartenführer Karl Ullrich (Kommandeur SS-Panzergrenadier-Regiment 6 “Theodor Eicke” / 3.SS-Panzer-Division “Totenkopf”), which were held at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 1 August 1944. Ullrich received the Eichenlaub #480 on 14 May 1944 previously for his outstanding leadership and bravery in the many battles against the Red Army in the Eastern Front, from March 1943 to March 1944. From left to right: Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler (Chef der SS und Polizei), SS-Standartenführer Ullrich, and SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Hermann Fegelein (Verbindungsoffizier zwischen dem Reichsführer-SS und dem Führerhauptquartier).



Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) shaking hands and congratulates SS-Obergruppenführer Steiner for his newly awarded Schwerter, while SS-Sturmbannführer Degrelle saluting. This picture was taken by Heinrich Hoffmann on 28 August 1944 during award ceremony for the two SS officers veteran of the Battle of Narva, which were held at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia. SS-Obergruppenführer und General der Waffen-SS Felix Steiner (Kommandierender General III. SS-Panzerkorps) received the Schwerter for his Ritterkreuz (bestowal date 10 August 1944), while SS-Sturmbannführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") received the Eichenlaub (bestowal date 27 August 1944).The tall guy at left is Hitler's adjutant, SS-Sturmbannführer Richard Schulze. BTW, in his memoirs, Degrelle said that every time he met Steiner, his boss always looked calm and fragrant, even in the midst of the war! German people at that time used to use Rassierwasser (aftershave) after shaving, and Steiner was no exception. Famous brands during the Third Reich include TARR, "Eau de Cologne", (Kölnisch Wasser) 4711, and Pitralon. Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-1945-


The first, the last and the only award ceremony of the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Goldenem Eichenlaub, Schwertern und Brillanten (Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Golden Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds) for Stuka ace Hans-Ulrich Rudel, which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Adlerhost near Langenhain-Ziegenberg, Hesse, on 1 January 1945 (Rudel had already received the announcement from 29 December 1944). He received the fifth grade of the Ritterkreuz after completing his 2,400th combat mission with his dive-bomber aircraft and destroying his 463rd tank! This picture was taken by Heinrich Hoffmann and it first published in "12 Uhr", 4 January 1945 edition. From left to right: Joachim von Ribbentrop (Reichsminister des Auwärtigen), Oberstleutnant Hans-Ulrich Rudel (Geschwaderkommodore Schlachtgeschwader 2 "Immelmann"),  SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Hermann Fegelein (Verbindungsoffizier der Waffen-SS zum Führerhauptquartier), Generaloberst Alfred Jodl (Chef der Wehrmacht-Führungsamt)), Adolf Hitler (Führer und oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht), Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Keitel (Chef des Oberkommando der Wehrmacht), General der Infanterie Wilhelm Burgdorf (Leiter des Heeres-Personalamt), Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring (Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe), Großadmiral Karl Dönitz (Oberbefehlshaber der Kriegsmarine), and Generaloberst Heinz Guderian (Chef des Generalstabes des Heeres). Other pictures from this occasion can be seen HERE.



This photo - taken inside the Führerbunker in Berlin - was shot in late February or early March 1945 and shows Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulating Generaloberst Ferdinand Schörner on the award of the Brillanten #23 for his Ritterkreuz, which he had received previously on 1 January 1945 as Oberbefehlshaber Heeresgruppe Nord. Standing by the door was Hitler's loyal Chief Aide, SS-Obergruppenführer Julius Schaub. Some sources say that this photo was taken in April 1945, but this claim is false because no photographers or cameramen were allowed to remain in the bunker since 20 March 1945!

Above is a photo taken in the Führerbunker when Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulating Generalmajor Theodor Tolsdorff (Kommandeur 340. Volksgrenadier-Division) on being awarded the 25th Brillanten zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, while in the background is Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Keitel (Chef Oberkommando der Wehrmacht) with his eyes closed. Tolsdorff himself formally received the coveted medal on 18 March 1945 (and usually this is only a notification sent by telegram). Of course Tolsdorff had to return home from the front and go to the bunker, which means that this photo of Tolsdorff in the bunker was taken AFTER March 18th! Could this picture was also taken after March 20, the date of the famous Hitlerjugend award ceremony which is also the date officially considered to be the last time Hitler was photographed? Amazingly, Tolsdorff's appointment as Commander of the LXXXII Armeekorps in the Balkans - as well as his promotion to Generalleutnant - took place on 1 April 1945. Does this mean that this is the same date when he met Hitler in the Berlin bunker?

Source :
http://alifrafikkhan.blogspot.com/2011/11/album-foto-upacara-penganugerahan.html
https://www.bpk-bildagentur.de/shop
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=46430&hilit=ol+award