Otto Ernst Remer Speaks in front of Grossdeutschland Soldiers

This famous video - taken from 'Die Deutsche Wochenschau Nr. 726, 3 August 1944 - shows Otto Ernst Remer (then Major, later promoted straight to Oberst!) giving a propaganda speech to troops of the Wachbataillon Großdeutschland (Greater German Guard Battalion) in Berlin, late July 1944. He stands in front of a Nazi flag, addresses the soldiers, and they march past him. This was a propaganda piece filmed to celebrate the failure of the 20 July 1944 plot and emphasize the unity between the Wehrmacht and the Nazi Party (NSDAP). In his speech, Remer, addressing his troops and emphasizing loyalty to Hitler and the state after the failed plot.

Oberst Otto Ernst Remer (Kommandeur "Wachbataillon Großdeutschland"). This is a screenshot taken from 'Die Deutsche Wochenschau' Nr. 726 (3 August 1944) which was taken shortly after the failed 20 July 1944 Plot.

From left to right: Oberleutnant Rudolf Schlee (Chef 5.Kompanie / Wachbataillon "Großdeutschland") and Oberleutnant Karl Hausmann. This is a screenshot taken from 'Die Deutsche Wochenschau' Nr. 726 (3 August 1944) which shows the speech of the commander of Wachbataillon "Großdeutschland", Oberst Otto Ernst Remer, shortly after the failed 20 July 1944 Plot.

Source :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hX0_CfJdatQ

Léon Degrelle Speech in Brussels (1943)

The Belgian fascist leader Oberleutnant der Reserve Léon Degrelle of Legion Wallonie gave a speech in Brussels, the Belgian capital, on 27 June 1943. In the podium he mentions Croats, in the context of the fight against Bolshevism and the "united Europe of nations". It should be noted that Degrelle valued Croats as fighters and remained friends with Croatia and Croatian political emigrants until his death in Spain in 1994. In his pamphlet Appel aux jeunes européens, published in August 1992, he condemned the Greater Serbia aggression against Croatia and the persecution of Muslims and Catholics by the JNA and communist forces.

Source :
https://archive.org/details/part.-1-leon-degrelle-major-general-of-the-wehrmacht-and-later-the-waffen-ss-gav/part.+1+L%C3%A9on+Degrelle%2C+Major+General+of+the+Wehrmacht+and+later+the+Waffen+SS%2C+gave+a+speech+in+Brussels%2C+the+capital+of+Belgium%2C+on+27+June+1943.mp4

Léon Degrelle Speech in Berlin (1944)

The Belgian fascist leader SS-Sturmbannführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") gives a speech for Walloon soldiers and workers who resided in Berlin. An excerpt from 'Die Deutsche Wochenschau' Nr. 722 - 5 July 1944.

Source :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHL8cxpPj1w

Alfred Jodl Speech about the Military Situation (24 February 1944)

Alfred Jodl was a German General and chief of the Operations Staff of the German Army High Command from 1940-1945.

He acted as the Chief of Staff during the Invasion of Norway and Denmark, and signed both the Commisar Order and Commando Order, which stipulates that captured Red Army Commisars and Allied Commando soldiers are to be shot immediatly after capture.

He was later tried and convicted at the Nuremberg Trials, and hanged in October 1946.

In this speech, he talked about the general military situation on the Eastern and Italian front, and about the fight against Titos partisans in Yugoslavia, as well as the impeding allied invasion of France.

Some excerpt from the video above:

3:05 The XI. Corps was a German army formation first deployed in 1936. It saw action in Poland, was then used as reserve during the Battle of France. It saw action again during the Balkan campaign, and then assigned to the Army Group South (11th Army)  during Operation Barbarossa. It was encircled and destroyed during the Battle of Stalingrad, then re-depolyed in January 1943 and assigned to the 8th Army. What Jodl is talking about here is the encirclement of the Corp, togehther with large parts of the 8th Army, during the Korsun–Cherkasy pocket battle, where it was destroyed again. It was re-deployed once more in April 1944 and assigned to the 1.Tank Army. It capitulated north of Prague in May 1945.

4:22 Mountain AOK 20: The Mountain AOK 20 (also called 20th Army, Lappland-Army and AOK Lappland) was a German army formed in January 1942, stationed in the northern parts of the Finnish front. The front there remained largley stable, so the Army didnt saw much action. After Finnland switched sides, it retreated to northern Norway where it capitulated in May 1945.

7:17 Agram is an old German name for Zagreb, the capital of Croatia.

Source :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZrGBTOhPIs

Felix Steiner Funeral

The funeral of former Waffen-SS general Felix Steiner which were held on 25 May 1966. His funeral was attended by hundreds of his men who came from all over Europe to pay their last respects, including Ritterkreuzträger Otto Weidinger and Wilhelm Bittrich. Steiner died on 12 May 1966 in Münich, 11 days before his 70th birthday, and was buried in Friedhof Perlacher Forst (Plot 201, Reihe A, Grab 16).

The funeral of former Waffen-SS general Felix Steiner which were held on 25 May 1966. His funeral was attended by hundreds of his men who came from all over Europe to pay their last respects. Steiner died on 12 May 1966 in Münich, 11 days before his 70th birthday, and was buried in Friedhof Perlacher Forst (Plot 201, Reihe A, Grab 16).

Herbert Otto Gille gives the eulogy during the funeral of former Waffen-SS general Felix Steiner which were held on 25 May 1966. His funeral was attended by hundreds of his men who came from all over Europe to pay their last respects. Steiner died on 12 May 1966 in Münich, 11 days before his 70th birthday, and was buried in Friedhof Perlacher Forst (Plot 201, Reihe A, Grab 16).

The casket during the funeral of former Waffen-SS general Felix Steiner which were held on 25 May 1966. His funeral was attended by hundreds of his men who came from all over Europe to pay their last respects. Steiner died on 12 May 1966 in Münich, 11 days before his 70th birthday, and was buried in Friedhof Perlacher Forst (Plot 201, Reihe A, Grab 16).

Source :
Agustin Vazquez photo collection
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felix_Steiner
https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/article/waffen-ss-general-felix-steiners-wwii-legacy/
https://www.wehrmacht-awards.com/forums/forum/wehrmacht-era-militaria/-1957-medals-orders-and-decorations/646561-vets-wearing-their-57ers/page279#post14377794

Herbert Otto Gille Speaks at HIAG Meeting

Former general of the Waffen-SS, Herbert Otto Gille, gives a speech on the 16th of November in 1952 during a meeting of the "Hilfsgemeinschaft auf Gegenseitigkeit der Angehörigen der ehemaligen Waffen-SS e.V." (short: HIAG, translates as: "Mutual Help Association of Former Waffen-SS Members") in Gelsenkirchen. The HIAG fights for juristical and societal separation of the Waffen-SS and the Allgemeine-SS, which were on duty in the concentration camps of the Nazi period. In an article by Otto Kumm, former General of the Waffen SS, which appeared in Der Freiwillige, he notes that the origin of HIAG goes back to 1949. Kameraden of the former 7. SS-Freiwilligen-Gebirgs-Division "Prinz Eugen" got together in Hamburg to form a group with the objective to assist ex-Waffen SS members in prison and in financial need and to combat the defamation of the Waffen SS by the Nuremberg trials. This small group grew quickly from 50 to 100. They decided on the name Hilfsgemeinschaft auf Gegenseitigkeit (HIAG): Fellowship for Mutual Support. In the following months the numbers grew to 700-800 men. In 1951 the number of members in the club were 1500 to 1700. The HIAG movement mushroomed all over Germany. The spread of information came from the original publication "Ausweg" which was later replaced by "Wiking Ruf" (published by Herbert Otto Gille). In the 50s and 60s the HIAG was quite active organizing meetings and get-togethers (Tagungen). The meetings and get-togethers with the marches always attracted a lot of mostly negative publicity. As the key leaders of HIAG died the HIAG movement lost its impetus and is no longer active. The HIAG movement was only partly successful in clearing the Waffen SS reputation (the motto being that they were soldiers like any others). In a way, HIAG was the final chapter of the history of the Waffen SS.

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=37769&p=793729&hilit=gille#p793729
https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/former-general-of-the-waffen-ss-herbert-gille-gives-a-news-photo/1063490854

Hasso von Manteuffel Speaking in a Convention

4 April 1954: Pictured here is former Wehrmacht General Hasso von Manteuffel speaking in Reinickendorfer Schützenhaus, Berlin. Outside the hall there was a tumult caused by communists who had come from the East sector. There was also a commotion in the hall when a heckler spoke up.

Source :
https://www.alamy.com/apr-04-1954-pictured-here-is-former-nazi-general-hasso-von-manteuffel-image69288830.html?imageid=F07BC933-EDBD-45E0-8475-B0BFBA2334A1&p=90011&pn=1&searchId=1ce64d6deb48a7bde1330002a15193f3&searchtype=0

Hasso von Manteuffel Speaks in the Factory

Generalleutnant Hasso von Manteuffel (Kommandeur Panzergrenadier-Division "Grossdeutschland") during a lecture in a factory in Germany, 1944. Manteuffel definitely wore his 'Afrika' award cufftitle on the incorrect sleeve (his right) directly below his Grossdeutchland cuff. This was a highly unusual practice and against regulations, but who is going to argue with this high ranking officer and a war hero?

Generalleutnant Hasso von Manteuffel (Kommandeur Panzergrenadier-Division "Grossdeutschland") during a lecture in a factory in Germany, 1944. Like many of other Ritterkreuzträger (Ritterkreuz holder), Manteuffel had the opportunity to go on a propaganda tour in his homeland to share his stories on the frontline and provide valuable advice based on his experiences.

Source :
Bayerische Staatsbibliothek photo archive

Hans-Ulrich Rudel Speaking Before Journalists

Major Hans-Ulrich Rudel (Geschwaderführer Schlachtgeschwader 2 "Immelmann") spoke before domestic and foreign journalists on Wednesday, 6 April 1944, about the use of air power in defensive combat on the Eastern front. Here he also talks about his terrible experience when he had to make an emergency landing behind Soviet territory so he had to return to territory controlled by German troops many kilometers away on foot in the middle of the shivering winter! In this incident he also lost his radio operator and best friend Erwin Hentschel, who drowned while crossing the frozen Dniester river (600 meters long). The picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Ketelhohn.

Source :
Bayerische Staatsbibliothek (Image-No.: 50061504)
https://www.ebay.com/itm/192878741171
http://alifrafikkhan.blogspot.com/2011/11/album-foto-terbaik-hans-ulrich-rudel.html

A Lecture by Heinrich Schüler in Belgrade

A lecture by Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler in front of Wehrmacht soldiers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

A lecture by Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler in front of Wehrmacht soldiers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

A lecture by Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler in front of Wehrmacht soldiers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

A lecture by Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler in front of Wehrmacht soldiers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

A lecture by Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler in front of Wehrmacht soldiers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

A lecture by Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler in front of Wehrmacht soldiers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.



A lecture by Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler in front of Wehrmacht soldiers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (center) with Luftwaffe officers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (center) with Luftwaffe officers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (center) with Luftwaffe officers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (center) with Luftwaffe officers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (center) with Luftwaffe officers in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (left) ready to leaving Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (back to the camera) saying farewell to Luftwaffe men, here a Sonderführer from the propaganda company, before leaving Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler (center) saying farewell to Luftwaffe men, here a Sonderführer from the propaganda company, before leaving Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Eichenlaubträger Heinrich Schüler saluting the cameraman before leaving Belgrade, Yugoslavia. According to the original caption in the reporting notebooks of the Bundesarchiv Bildarchiv in Koblenz, this image shows Major Heinrich Schüler, commander of an infantry unit engaged in Greece. This picture was taken by Kriegsberichter Werner Bockelmann (Luftwaffenkommando Südost) on 9 July 1943. Schüler himself received the Ritterkreuz on 18 September 1942 and Eichenlaub on 2 April 1943.

Source :
https://imagesdefense.gouv.fr/fr/une-conference-du-major-heinrich-schuler.html#

Award Ceremony for the "Cherkassy Heroes"

Award ceremony with Hitler for the three "Cherkassy Heroes" who led their men escaping from the Red Army encirclement in Korsun-Cherkassy pocket (24 January - 16 February 1944). The ceremony was held at Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 20 February 1944. The recipients are: Generalleutnant Theobald "Theo-Helmut" Lieb (Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps), SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking"), and SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"). Lieb received both the Ritterkreuz (7 February 1944) and Eichenlaub (18 February 1944)  at the same time; Gille received the Schwerter (20 February 1944); while Degrelle received the Ritterkreuz (20 February 1944). The award ceremony was attended by the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler (Chef der SS und deutschen Polizei) and SS-Brigadeführer und Generalmajor der Waffen-SS Hermann Fegelein (Verbindungsoffizier der Waffen-SS zum Führerhauptquartier).

From the book "Hell’s Gate: The Battle of the Cherkassy Pocket, January-February 1944" by Douglas E. Nash:

Following the breakout of the Cherkassy pocket (16-18 February 1944) and their units were being formed into Gruppe Mattenklott, SS-Gruppenführer Herbert-Otto Gille of SS-Wiking Division, SS-Hauptstürmführer Léon Degrelle of SS-Brigade Wallonien and Generalleutnant Theobald Lieb (m.d.F.b.) of XXXXII. Armeekorps flew to Rastenburg after their conference at Uman aboard a Ju-52, arriving on the evening of 20 February 1944. Here, the two SS officers were whisked away in a limousine to their accommodations by an escort provided by Reichsfiihrer-SS Heinrich Himmler. Degrelle later recalled how out of place he felt, when he stated that "In the automobile which drove me from the airport I could feel hundreds of lice devouring my body. My uniform was filthy." He was also still wearing the heavy felt winter boots he had worn during the breakout and his uniform was torn in several places. While he was led to a waiting hot bath, his first in months, a squad of SS men took his uniform from him and cleaned and mended it as best they could. Prior to dressing, Degrelle discovered that Himmler had presented him a gift of a new undershirt, since his old one was full of holes and lice-ridden. Thus refreshed, Degrelle and Gille joined Himmler for the 40 kilometer drive to Hitler's Wolfschanze.

Here, the group was led into the perimeter of the compound, illuminated by floodlights and heavily guarded. Once led inside the wooden meeting hall, the group was greeted by Hitler himself, who seized Degrelle's hand and said "I've been very worried about you." Degrelle's admiration for the Führer was not lessened by Hitler's frail appearance, in fact, it increased, since he credited it to the fact that Hitler's back was bent from "studying maps interminably and from bearing the weight of the world ..." It did not occur to the Walloon leader at the time that it was Hitler himself who was directly responsible for the destruction of his beloved brigade, since it was he who had decreed that the salient along the Dnieper be held at all costs.

Degrelle and Gille, now reunited with Lieb, were led to a large hall in the building, where Hitler presented the two generals with the Eichenlaub (Oak Leaves) to their Ritterkreuz (Knight's Crosses) and Degrelle with his first award of the Ritterkreuz. The award ceremony was immediately followed by a press conference which was broadcast live throughout Germany and the occupied areas as proof indeed that German forces had fought its way out of the Cherkassy Pocket and had not been destroyed, as the Soviets had claimed. Hitler's press chief, Dr. Otto Dietrich, allowed each of the three men to make a few prepared statements. In the glare of flashbulbs, they briefly related their experiences and how well their troops had fought, stressing repeatedly that the mass of the encircled troops had fought their way free.

In this occasion, a very much alive Theo Lieb found himself in the limelight. Perhaps carried away by the excitement and the media attention, Lieb, when asked who had made the decision to break out of the pocket, declared that he himself had done so on his own responsibility. This provoked an angry inquiry two days later by Generalfeldmarschall Erich von Manstein, who learned about the incident after hearing the interview on the Deutsche Soldatensender (German Armed Forces radio). The field marshal fired off a personal message on 22 February to Hube at 1.Pz.Armee demanding that he set the
record straight, since it was Manstein, through 8.Armee's commander, who had made the decision to order a breakout.

It was here perhaps where Lieb earned the sobriquet that would follow him wherever he went for the rest of his career forever after, he would be known as the "Lion of Cherkassy." While it had probably been coined sarcastically, Lieb wore the title as a badge of honor. Who could deny that he had earned it, for had he not led the assault force that broke out of the encirclement? Despite the honors heaped upon him by Hitler and his superb handling of XXXXII.A.K., Lieb was not selected to command a corps again, though he did command 34.InfDiv. along the Franco-Italian border from June to October 1944. The war's end found him holding a nominal assignment in northern Italy. Perhaps Manstein's wrath had shortened his career, perhaps Lieb had done so himself with his outspokenness...

BTW, many notes on the books and websites mention the awards ceremony was on 18 February. Also note that the “official” date for Lieb’s award is 18 February while Gille and Degrelle’s date for their respective awards is 20 February. The ceremony actually took place on 20 February 1944.

Note how Hitler is warm to Degrelle in the photos below. Upon meeting Degrelle, Hitler would have mentioned “I’ve been very worried about you”. Degrelle apparently received the Eichenlaub on 25. August 1944. Upon receiving his Eichenlaub, Hitler would have told him, "Si j'avais eu un fils, j'aurais aimé qu'il fût comme vous" - "If I had a son, I would want him to be like you." (Interview given by Léon Degrelle to Jean Kapel in Histoire magazine; No. 19, septembre 1981). This statement is contested by Degrelle’s biographer, Jean-Marie Frérotte in Léon Degrelle, le dernier fasciste (Bruxelles, Paul Legrain, 1987). After the ceremony Degrelle would have said of Hitler, “I saw in his eyes that he looked at me like a son”.

Although taken 6 months earlier, the photos of the Cherkassy ceremony show a warmth that Hitler rarely demonstrates to other soldiers.

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).

Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulates SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") during the award ceremony for "Cherkassy Heroes" which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 20 February 1944. In the center is another recipient, SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking"), while second from right is SS-Brigadeführer und Generalmajor der Waffen-SS Hermann Fegelein (Verbindungsoffizier der Waffen-SS zum Führerhauptquartier).

Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulates SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") during the award ceremony for "Cherkassy Heroes" which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 20 February 1944. Note how Hitler is warm to Degrelle in the photos that surfaced from the ceremony. Upon meeting Degrelle, Hitler would have mentioned “I’ve been very worried about you”. Degrelle apparently received the Eichenlaub on 25. August 1944. Upon receiving his Eichenlaub, Hitler would have told him, "Si j'avais eu un fils, j'aurais aimé qu'il fût comme vous" - "If I had a son, I would want him to be like you." (Interview given by Léon Degrelle to Jean Kapel in Histoire magazine; No. 19, septembre 1981). This statement is contested by Degrelle’s biographer, Jean-Marie Frérotte in Léon Degrelle, le dernier fasciste (Bruxelles, Paul Legrain, 1987). After the ceremony Degrelle would have said of Hitler, “I saw in his eyes that he looked at me like a son”. Although taken 6 months earlier, the photos of the Cherkassy ceremony show a warmth that Hitler rarely demonstrates to other soldiers.



Adolf Hitler (Führer und Oberster Befehlshaber der Wehrmacht) congratulates Generalleutnant Theobald "Theo-Helmut" Lieb (Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps) during the award ceremony for "Cherkassy Heroes" which were held at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, on 20 February 1944. Although Gille and Degrelle was also awarded the medals on this same day at the FHQ, it seems that Lieb received the Eichenlaub alone. However, there are several photos showing both Degrelle, Gille, Lieb and Press Chief Dietrich taken after the two ceremonies (see below).



Press conference held at the Reichspropagandaministerium in Berlin on 21 February 1944, one day after the award ceremony for the heroes of the Battle of Cherkassy at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze. From left to right: SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"), Generalleutnant Theobald "Theo-Helmut" Lieb (Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps), SS-Obergruppenführer Dr.rer.pol. Otto Dietrich (Reichspressechef der NSDAP), and SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking").



Press conference held at the Reichspropagandaministerium in Berlin on 21 February 1944, one day after the award ceremony for the heroes of the Battle of Cherkassy at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze. Generalleutnant Theobald "Theo-Helmut" Lieb (standing, Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps) is making a speech, while behind him are, from left to right: SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"), SS-Obergruppenführer Dr.rer.pol. Otto Dietrich (Reichspressechef der NSDAP), SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking"), and two unknown civilian.

Three "Heroes of Cherkassy" with SS-Obergruppenführer Dr.rer.pol. Otto Dietrich (right, Reichspressechef der NSDAP). From left to right: SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking"), Generalleutnant Theobald "Theo-Helmut" Lieb (Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps), and SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien". The picture was taken by the unknown photographer from Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann at the Reichspropagandaministerium in Berlin on 21 February 1944, one day after the award ceremony at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia.

Three "Heroes of Cherkassy" with SS-Obergruppenführer Dr.rer.pol. Otto Dietrich (right, Reichspressechef der NSDAP). From left to right: SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking"), Generalleutnant Theobald "Theo-Helmut" Lieb (Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps), and SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"). The picture was taken by the unknown photographer from Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann at the Reichspropagandaministerium in Berlin on 21 February 1944, one day after the award ceremony at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia.

Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler (Chef der SS und deutschen Polizei) sharing a lighter moment with two of the "Cherkassy Heroes" from Waffen-SS: SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (left, Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking") and SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (right, Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"). The picture was taken by the unknown photographer from Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann on 21 February 1944, one day after the award ceremony at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia.



SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking") photographed by Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, after the Schwerter award ceremony for the "Heroes of Cherkassy" with Hitler on 20 February 1944. The medal was formally awarded on the same day for the extremely distinguished leadership of his division during the breakout from the Cherkassy pocket. In this time his division was the spearhead of the German forces trapped within the pocket, and it played an invaluable role in allowing the encircled troops to escape.



SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Herbert Otto Gille (Kommandeur 5. SS-Panzer-Division "Wiking") photographed by Walter Frentz at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, after the Schwerter award ceremony for the "Heroes of Cherkassy" with Hitler on 20 February 1944. The medal was formally awarded on the same day for the extremely distinguished leadership of his division during the breakout from the Cherkassy pocket. In this time his division was the spearhead of the German forces trapped within the pocket, and it played an invaluable role in allowing the encircled troops to escape.

Generalleutnant Theo-Helmut "Theobald" Lieb (Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps) photographed by Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, after the award ceremony for the "Heroes of Cherkassy" with Hitler on 20 February 1944. Although Gille and Degrelle was also awarded the medals on this same day at the FHQ, it seems that Lieb received the Eichenlaub alone. However, there are several photos showing both Degrelle, Gille, Lieb and Press Chief Dietrich taken after the two ceremonies. Lieb himself received the Eichenlaub for his further achievements during the battle for the Cherkassy pocket. Especially during the breakout from the pocket he would show great bravery and energy. He collected a Bataillon of stragglers from the Korpsabteilung B and the 5. SS Panzer-Division “Wiking” and broke through a Soviet armoured group south of the road Potschapinzy-Lissjanka. With his horse Lieb then swam over the Gniloi-Tikitsch and reached safety at Lissjanka. For his role in this battle he would be christened the “Lion of Cherkassy” and be awarded the Eichenlaub directly from Hitler himself.

Generalleutnant Theobald "Theo-Helmut" Lieb (Kommandierender General XXXXII. Armeekorps) photographed by Walter Frentz at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, after the award ceremony for the "Heroes of Cherkassy" with Hitler on 20 February 1944. Lieb himself received the Eichenlaub for his further achievements during the battle for the Cherkassy pocket. Especially during the breakout from the pocket he would show great bravery and energy. He collected a Bataillon of stragglers from the Korpsabteilung B and the 5. SS Panzer-Division “Wiking” and broke through a Soviet armoured group south of the road Potschapinzy-Lissjanka. With his horse Lieb then swam over the Gniloi-Tikitsch and reached safety at Lissjanka. For his role in this battle he would be christened the “Lion of Cherkassy” and be awarded the Eichenlaub directly from Hitler himself.



SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") photographed by Presse-Illustrationen Heinrich Hoffmann at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, after the award ceremony for the "Heroes of Cherkassy" with Hitler on 20 February 1944. Degrelle’s Ritterkreuz recommendation reads as follows: "The SS-Sturmbrigade ‘Wallonien’ belongs to the formations of the Heer and Waffen-SS that defied all enemy attacks during the weeks of combat in the Cherkassy pocket, fighting all alone. Degrelle took over leadership of the Brigade after its former brave commander, SS-Sturmbannführer Lucien Lippert, died in battle on 13 February 1944 after a shot to the chest. Prior to this Degrelle had already distinguished himself several times through his personal bravery, and in his new role he demonstrated outstanding leadership during the decisive breakthrough fighting of the last days. He and his brave Walloons acquitted themselves very well as they struggled side by side with soldiers of the Heer and the Germanic men of the Waffen-SS in a true comradely fashion."

SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") photographed by Walter Frentz at the Führerhauptquartier Wolfsschanze in Rastenburg, East Prussia, after the award ceremony for the "Heroes of Cherkassy" with Hitler on 20 February 1944. Degrelle’s Ritterkreuz recommendation reads as follows: "The SS-Sturmbrigade ‘Wallonien’ belongs to the formations of the Heer and Waffen-SS that defied all enemy attacks during the weeks of combat in the Cherkassy pocket, fighting all alone. Degrelle took over leadership of the Brigade after its former brave commander, SS-Sturmbannführer Lucien Lippert, died in battle on 13 February 1944 after a shot to the chest. Prior to this Degrelle had already distinguished himself several times through his personal bravery, and in his new role he demonstrated outstanding leadership during the decisive breakthrough fighting of the last days. He and his brave Walloons acquitted themselves very well as they struggled side by side with soldiers of the Heer and the Germanic men of the Waffen-SS in a true comradely fashion."

Source :
Bayerische Staatsbibliothek photo archive (Image-No.: 30028861)
Mark C. Yerger photo collection
"Hell’s Gate: The Battle of the Cherkassy Pocket, January-February 1944" by Douglas E. Nash
https://www.akg-images.de/CS.aspx?VP3=SearchResult&ITEMID=2UMDHUNUH2AI
https://www.alexautographs.com/auction-lot/theo-helmut-lieb_9D243A48C5
http://alifrafikkhan.blogspot.com/2010/10/album-foto-leon-degrelle.html
https://beeldbankwo2.nl/nl/beelden/detail/cfeb4812-0259-11e7-904b-d89d6717b464/media/53a04baf-8a8f-d652-fcf5-ff0a4e601ce5?mode=detail&view=horizontal&q=gille&rows=1&page=1
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=46430&p=1375350&hilit=gille&sid=4efb5f6b5be120d761949f74f47aa14e#p1375350
https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/gille-herbert-general-of-the-waffen-ss-germanyfrom-left-to-news-photo/545336087
http://pantorijn.blogspot.com/2014/06/hoffmann-postcards-knight-cross-holders_41.html
https://waralbum.ru/364716/
https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/photos-papers-propaganda-third-reich/signatures-waffen-ss-knights-cross-winners-6478-2/
https://www.wehrmacht-awards.com/forums/forum/wehrmacht-era-militaria/photos-and-paper-items-forum/379950-original-presse-hoffmann-photos?t=379638
https://x.com/GermanScholarrr/status/1802039067288191330?lang=zh

Léon Degrelle Speaks in Paris

SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") speaks in front of the audience at the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, on Sunday, 5 March 1944 at 10:30 a.m. In his speech, he launches a vibrant appeal to France to support the ongoing battles against the Soviet Communist in the Eastern Front.

SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") speaks in front of the audience at the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, on Sunday, 5 March 1944 at 10:30 a.m. In his speech, he launches a vibrant appeal to France to support the ongoing battles against the Soviet Communist in the Eastern Front. The picture was taken by André Zucca.

The script of Degrelle's speech on 5 March 1944 (in French).



The public's wait outside Palais de Chaillot, Paris. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the welcoming ceremony for SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.



The audience is gradually increasing in front of the Palais de Chaillot, Paris. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the welcoming ceremony for SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.



Luftwaffe brass band plays military marches in the Palais de Chaillot, Paris. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the speech of SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.



SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") speaks in front of the audience at the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, on Sunday, 5 March 1944 at 10:30 a.m. In his speech, he launches a vibrant appeal to France to support the ongoing battles against the Soviet Communist in the Eastern Front. The picture was taken by André Zucca.



An aspect of the room at the Palais de Chaillot during Léon Degrelle's speech. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the welcoming ceremony for Degrelle who just returned from the Eastern Front.


Members of LVF (Légion des volontaires français contre le bolchévisme or Legion of French Volunteers Against Bolshevism), militiamen and all political parties of national revolution attended the meeting. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the speech of SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.



Members of LVF (Légion des volontaires français contre le bolchévisme or Legion of French Volunteers Against Bolshevism), militiamen and all political parties of national revolution attended the meeting. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the speech of SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.



Monsieur Fernand de Brinon (Secretary of State of Vichy France) and SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Carl Oberg (Höherer SS- und Polizeiführer Paris). The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the speech of SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.



SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") among the crowds inside the Palais de Chaillot, Paris. The picture was taken by André Zucca.



From left to right: Capitaine André Alfred Dupuis of LVF (Légion des volontaires français contre le bolchévisme or Legion of French Volunteers Against Bolshevism), Joseph darnand (leader of Milice française), and SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"). They were inside the Palais de Chaillot, Paris. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the welcoming ceremony for Degrelle who just returned from the Eastern Front.



SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") inside the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, during the welcoming ceremony for Degrelle who just returned from the Eastern Front. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944.



From left to right: SS-Standartenführer Helmut Knochen (Befehlshaber der Sicherheitspolizei und des Sicherheitsdienst in Frankreich), SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Paul Scheer (behind Knochen, Befehlshaber der Ordnungspolizei Frankreich), SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"), and SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Carl Oberg (Höherer SS- und Polizeiführer Paris). They were greeting the enthusiastic crowds who cheer Degrelle in front of the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, on Sunday, 5 March 1944. The picture was taken by André Zucca.

From left to right: SS-Standartenführer Helmut Knochen (Befehlshaber der Sicherheitspolizei und des Sicherheitsdienst in Frankreich), SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Paul Scheer (half visible, Befehlshaber der Ordnungspolizei Frankreich), SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"), and SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Carl Oberg (Höherer SS- und Polizeiführer Paris). They were greeting the enthusiastic crowds who cheer Degrelle in front of the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, on Sunday, 5 March 1944. The picture was taken by André Zucca.



From left to right: SS-Standartenführer Helmut Knochen (Befehlshaber der Sicherheitspolizei und des Sicherheitsdienst in Frankreich), SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Paul Scheer (behind Knochen, Befehlshaber der Ordnungspolizei Frankreich), SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien"), and SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Carl Oberg (Höherer SS- und Polizeiführer Paris). They were greeting the enthusiastic crowds who cheer Degrelle in front of the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, on Sunday, 5 March 1944. The picture was taken by André Zucca.



Monsieur Joseph darnand (leader of Milice française) is also very warmly welcomed in the Palais de Chaillot, Paris. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the welcoming ceremony for SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.



SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") and SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Polizei Carl Oberg (Höherer SS- und Polizeiführer Paris) walk down the steps of the Palais de Chaillot, Paris, on Sunday, 5 March 1944. The picture was taken by André Zucca.

Exit of Generalleutnant Hans Reichsfreiherr von Boineburg-Lengsfeld (Kommandant von Groß-Paris und Kommandeur 325. Sicherungs-Division) from Palais de Chaillot, Paris. The picture was taken by André Zucca on Sunday, 5 March 1944, during the speech of SS-Hauptsturmführer der Reserve Léon Degrelle (Kommandeur 5. SS-Freiwilligen-Sturmbrigade "Wallonien") who just returned from the Eastern Front.

The crowds flows away after the departure of Léon Degrelle...

Source :
https://bibliotheques-specialisees.paris.fr/ark:/73873/pf0001660224/
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?p=2493528#p2493528
Grégory Bouysse photo collection
https://www.facebook.com/encyclopediaWWII
https://www.galerie-roger-viollet.fr/fr/photo-guerre-1939-1945-manifestation-de-la-waffen-ss-384388-3488904402
https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/world-war-ii-orchestra-of-the-waffen-ss-paris-chaillot-news-photo/92424518
https://www.granger.com/results.asp?inline=true&image=0763361&wwwflag=1&itemx=9
https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/ss-uniforms-insignia/big-ss-house-flag-385-x-129-cm-real-fake-784350/