{"title":"Groupings","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShop through our collection of WW2 groupings for sale on the Ruptured Duck. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"seven-document-grouping-for-member-of-panzer-jager-unit-1","title":"Seven Document Grouping for Member of Panzer Jäger Unit","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeven Document Grouping for Member of Panzer Jäger Unit-All seven of these award documents were given to Hans Eggerstedt who was a member of 1.\/ Panzer Jäger Abteilung 240 and 2.\/ Panzer Jäger Abteilung 30. These documents tell us that he had promotions from Gefreiter to Obergefreiten to Unteroffizier. The documents included are as follows:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEKII on 7.12.41\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGeneral Assault Badge on 15.7.42\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlack Wound Badge on 20.9.42\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKrim Shield on 16.2.43\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDriver Qualification Badge in Bronze on 20.6.43\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSilver Wound Badge on 6.8.44\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDriver Qualification Badge in Silver on 2.9.44\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe document for the Krim Shield has an auto pen signature of Generalfeldmarschal von Manstein. The EKII document and the General Assault document are signed by generals. Thanks to Tom, our research guru, we can now state the following:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis guy, Hans Eggerstedt was a member of 1.\/Pz.Jg.Abt 240 and then 2.\/Pz.Jg.Abt 30 from sometime after 20 June 1943. Pz.Jg.Abt 30 was part of 30. Infanterie Division which got caught in Kurland, East Prussia.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Sadly the Volksbund lists a Hans Gerhard EGGERSTEDT as MIA in Ostpreussen (East Prussia) from 01.01.1945, could be the same person.  All documents are in fine condition! \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45189821268274,"sku":"D-109a","price":600.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Award_Document_Panzer_28310_e16ea86a-0f52-4ec6-b901-541df852ebc8.jpg?v=1683663703"},{"product_id":"interesting-photo-and-document-grouping-for-luftwaffe-fjr6-paratrooper-kia-in-normandy","title":"Interesting Photo and Document Grouping for Luftwaffe FJR6 Paratrooper","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eInteresting Photo and Document grouping for Luftwaffe FJR6 Paratrooper KIA in Normandy-This grouping includes 10 training photos, 3 award documents, a document from the Center for War Losses and Prisoners and modern correspondence between collectors regarding the grouping. Gefreiten Hans Fischer was a member of FRJ7 and eventually FJR 6 during the Normandy campaign. The included correspondence details much about his unit and its fate. He was killed, most likely, at La Barquette on or around June 8, 1944. The letter from the Center for War Losses and Prisoners is dated 23 June 1944 and is informing his family that he was assumed to have been taken prisoner but that they would keep them posted once they knew his exact fate. The award documents are for the Paratrooper badge, awarded to him as a Jäger on 20. Juli 1942, the AFRIKA cuff title, awarded to him as a Gefreiten on 1.5.1943 and the Black Wound Badge, as a Gefreiter on 20.Juli 1943. There is probably more research that can be done! A great grouping!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46568047313202,"sku":"D-010","price":1300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Documents_DAK_Afrika_Cufftitle_Normandy_Fallschirmjager_34476.jpg?v=1692804502"},{"product_id":"scrapbook-grouping-of-nurnberg-defendants","title":"Scrapbook Grouping of Nürnberg Defendants","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eScrapbook Grouping of Nürnberg Defendants-This grouping consists of six pages removed from a scrapbook. There are 11 photos in the book (a separate bonus is included), all very clearly identified and in great detail. The 11 pics are of the members of the Third Reich who were hung after being found guilty at the Nürnberg trials in 1946. Each pic shows the man after he was assassinated. They are lying on a simple wooden coffin in a gymnasium. Each is dated October 16, 1946. These include Göring, von Ribbentrop, Keitel, Jodl, Frick, Rosenberg, Kaltenbrunner, Frank, Sauckel, Streicher and Seyss-Inquart. Of course, Göring is the only one who is not shown with a noose around his neck, he escaped the hangman by sneaking his cyanide capsule. The “bonus” is a pic of Heinrich Himmler after his suicide. These are graphic but it is history. There is a missing picture from the first page. It was of three of the main war criminals seen at the trial.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48920821891378,"sku":"S-174","price":650.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/RD_052224_0617.jpg?v=1718720935"},{"product_id":"large-army-document-grouping-for-panther-tank-crew-member","title":"Large Army Document Grouping for Panther Tank Crew Member","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLarge Army Document Grouping for Panther Tank Crew Member-This huge grouping has a total of 17 documents (some booklets), including the Wehrstammbuch, army health book, Wehrpass photo, five army documents verifying his participation and completion of training as a Panther MK V tank crew member, army glasses order form, Prufungsergehnis (proof that he passed the tank drivers license), two miscellaneous army documents and five medical documents. The soldiers name is Josef Maierhofer. He was born on March 25, 1902 so he was clearly an older guy during the war period. The latest date on a document is August 3, 1944. This is a tremendous grouping that would be a fantastic research opportunity!\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49218062352690,"sku":"D-045","price":1100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/RD_072324_2674.jpg?v=1724436541"},{"product_id":"rare-grouping-of-6-german-anti-allies-propaganda-booklets","title":"Rare Grouping of 6 German Anti Allies Propaganda Booklets","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eRare Grouping of 6 German Anti Allies Propaganda Booklets-Each of these measure 6” by 4 ½”. It is a set of six, each one is individually numbered. Each of these show “happy” Allied POW’s in German prisoner of war camps. Each talks about how well they are being treated and what a “grand” time they are having. Extremely interesting and rare! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49498117603634,"sku":"D-047","price":600.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/RD_100424_9482.jpg?v=1730834547"},{"product_id":"ss-officer-walter-erhardt-photo-grouping","title":"SS Officer Walter Erhardt Photo Grouping","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eSS Officer Walter Erhardt Photo Grouping-This is a grouping of phots that belonged to SS officer Walter Erhardt. This includes four photos of Hitler and many of these have notations on the reverse. Erhardt survived the war and was interrogated while in Russian captivity. His name is listed in “The Hitler Book”. There are 17 original photos and 5 reprints. This is a scarce grouping! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49744875323698,"sku":"S-425","price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/German_WW2_SS_Erhardt_Photo_0481.jpg?v=1738792014"},{"product_id":"german-mining-association-dress-uniform-grouping","title":"German Mining Association Dress Uniform Grouping","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eGerman Mining Association Dress Uniform Grouping-This type of dress uniform was utilized starting around 1930. I am assuming that this is for some type of leader as the epaulets are black velvet with black cloth tassels and thick gold bullion stripes. Also seen are thick gold bullion crossed hammers on the beautiful black velvet collar. The uniform itself is produced in a heavy black cotton that is very soft. It is a bit faded but otherwise in great shape. There is a short black cloth cloak sewn to the back of the collar. There are twin rows of five buttons produced in brass with crossed hammers over black velvet striping. There is a nine button closure and the buttons are larger versions of the ones just mentioned. The cuffs are also black velvet. The interior is fully lined in black rayon that is in fine condition. There is a single pocket on the left side. The jacket is a size medium. Next up, the straight legged trousers which are produced in a heavy black wool. They are in very good condition with elasticized straps for the heels, slash type hip pockets and a three button fly with a pair of additional buttons at the waist. There is a small tear in the crotch at the bottom of the fly. \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eThere is a vintage (old but probably not period) black leather belt and a really neat 1873 one florin coin from Austro Hungary that was fashioned into a pendant suspended by a belt loop. The waist is a size 30 and these are 41” in overall length. Nice!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note that any \"accessories\" (i.e. medals, badges, belts etc.) are NOT included unless stated in description!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50917588271410,"sku":"U-168","price":1195.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_Imperial_Weimar_German_Uniform_Heer_Infantry_NCO_23066.jpg?v=1771531214"},{"product_id":"wwii-soviet-russian-model-1935-senior-air-force-commander-grouping","title":"WWII Soviet Russian Model 1935 Senior Air Force Commander Grouping","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eWWII Soviet Russian Model 1935 Senior Air Force Commander Grouping-This consists of the tunic, great coat and side cap (pilotica). Let’s start with the tunic, which is dark navy blue wool and in excellent condition with minor wear only. There are pleated breast pockets with scalloped flaps and internal hip pockets with scalloped flaps. There is a four button closure and all buttons are brass with the Soviet star, hammer and sickle. The cuffs and collar are piped in light blue. The collar tabs are light blue badge cloth with gold tresse, three red enamel diamonds and a brass winged propeller cipher. Each lower sleeve has three thick, gold tresse chevrons. The left sleeve has a fantastic Soviet pilots sleeve badge in gold bullion over dark navy blue wool. The interior is fully lined in gray cotton and it in great condition. It is a size large. The great coat is produced in the identical dark navy blue wool. It is also in great condition. It has hip pockets with straight flaps. There are two rows of six brass buttons. The ends of the lay down collar have light blue badge cloth with the upper edge piped in gold bullion. Each has three red enamel diamonds and a gilt finished brass winged propeller. The lower edge of the collar and the upper edge of the cuffs are piped in blue. Like the tunic, each sleeve has three thick, gold tresse chevrons and left sleeve has a Soviet pilots sleeve badge in gold bullion over dark navy blue wool. The interior is partially lined in gray cotton and there is a single pocket on the left side. This is also a size large. Finally, the cap which is also produced in dark navy blue wool. It’s in great shape as well. It is piped around the top with light blue piping. There is a light blue badge cloth star at the front with a red enamel star with hammer and sickle. The interior is fully lined in blue rayon that has some wear from use. The cap is a size 55. Excellent, scarce and desirable!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note that any \"accessories\" (i.e. medals, badges, belts etc.) are NOT included unless stated in description!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50917599740210,"sku":"WSU-102","price":6000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/280695_01.jpg?v=1771532001"},{"product_id":"incredible-ss-document-grouping-with-ss-photo-album-for-the-same-soldier","title":"INCREDIBLE SS Document Grouping with SS Photo Album for the Same Soldier","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eINCREDIBLE SS Document Grouping with SS Photo Album for the Same Soldier-This is by far the most comprehensive SS document grouping we have ever come across and the best part is that it is accompanied by a fantastic photo album for the same SS soldier. I could never begin to list all of the documents that are included but I will cover a few and give a summary. They cover date ranges from 1922 all the way through 1955 but a majority are wartime. The soldiers name was Heinz Brossen, born 5.9.21 in Krefeld. His SS number was 38783. His first listed rank in the paperwork is Mann and the last listed rank is Hauptscharführer. Documents include immunization records, a Deutsches Reichs Kennkarte, his HJ ID, an NSRL honor certificate for winning a 4 x 100 relay, a report card, reports from a vehicle manufacturing factory that he worked for, award documents for the KVKII w\/swords and the Russian Front medal (a ribbon bar is included), a hand drawn reunion card with many signatures of comrades and much, much more. A total of approximately 65 documents are included. I must mention one that I found very interesting. It is dated March 5, 1948 and it is from Der Spruchfericht, the court of appeals. It has ruled that he has to pay 1800.-RM because he “was a member of a criminal organization, namely the SS, from 1939-1945 as a hauptscharführer”. Very interesting! Now, the icing on the cake, the amazing photo album. It is black leatherette with silver runes and script on the front cover. It says “In Honor of my Service Time” and it is string bound. There are 25 pages inside with 77 photos of different sizes. They consists of training exercises, personal photos of Brossen, combat in cold weather (presumably Russia), tanks and other equipment and one that shows the open casket at the funeral of a fallen comrade where there is a huge SS flag behind the casket. This is about the most amazing SS photo and document I have ever encountered! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50951649820978,"sku":"WSS-362","price":3100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_SS_Document_Photo_Grouping_16268.jpg?v=1772649892"},{"product_id":"paratrooper-document-grouping-to-feldwebel-erich-vietor","title":"Paratrooper Document Grouping to Feldwebel Erich Vietor","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eParatrooper Document Grouping to Feldwebel Erich Vietor-This grouping consists of the following: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Second-issue Soldbuch (Paybook and Personal ID) issued on 30 September 1942 by the 1. Flieger-Betriebs-Kompanie (1st Flight Operations Company) of Kampfgruppe 126 (Bomber Group 126, which operated Heinkel 111s), with which he served from 29 February 1940 to 9 January 1943. On 10 January 1943, this unit was renamed as the 119. Flieger-Betriebs-Kompanie (11th Flight Operations Company; Vietor served with this unit through 25 January 1944; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Preliminary document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen in Stoff (Paratrooper Badge in Cloth). Because the Luftwaffe was in dire need of frontline troops, Vietor was ordered to the Hauptuntersuchungsstelle of the Generalkommando des XI. Fliegerkorps (Central Examination Center of the XI Air Corps), arriving at this unit on 26 January 1944. Vietor was examined and determined to be fit to be a paratrooper. On 11 April 1944, he was assigned to the 3.\/Fallschirmschule I (3d Company of Paratrooper School II) in Wittstock. From 12 April to 2 May 1944, Vietor took part in the paratrooper training course there, and having passed the course, was permitted to wear the Paratrooper Badge in Cloth;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) Fallschirmschützenschein (Paratrooper License). From 10 May 1944 to 21 February 1945, Vietor was assigned to two paratrooper artillery battalions. On 20 August 1944, Vietor received his oilcloth Fallschirmschützenschein from Fallschirm-Artillerie-Ersatz-Abteilung (Paratrooper Artillery Replacement Battalion) of the Fallschirm A.O.K. (Paratrooper Amy High Command). On 22 February 1945, Vietor was finally posted to a field unit, that is, the Headquarters Battery of Fallschirm-Artillerie-Regiment 11 (Paratrooper Artillery Regiment 11) of the 11. Fallschirmjäger-Division (11 Paratrooper Division). He was quickly reassigned to Headquarters Battery of Fallschirm-Artillerie-Regiment 10 (Paratrooper Artillery Regiment 10) of the 10. Fallschirmjäger-Division (10* Paratrooper Division) on 28 March 1945; this division fought in Austria and Moravia and surrendered to the Russians in May 1945. On 12 June 1945, Vietor was assigned to the 2a Company of the lInd Battalion of Regiment 27 (Schludelmann), whose postwar role is undetermined. An entry in Vitor's Soldbuch, shows that he received the Führergeschenk (Hitler's Gift Package for Soldiers' on Leave) on 21 November 1943. 4) Rare, late-war award document for the Fallschirmschützen-Abzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) dated 1 October 1944 issued by the Paratrooper Army High Command signed by Generalmajor Walter Barenthin (German Cross in Gold); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e5) Postwar service record summary dated 30 May 1945 listing all of Vietor's wartime units. Since Vietor retained these documents after the war, he erased the swastikas from them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51049939665202,"sku":"D-201","price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_Soldbuch_27003.jpg?v=1775680812"},{"product_id":"paratrooper-document-grouping-to-gefreiter-private-first-class-wilhelm-reida","title":"Paratrooper Document Grouping to Gefreiter (Private First Class) Wilhelm Reida","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eParatrooper Document Grouping to Gefreiter (Private First Class) Wilhelm Reida-Includes the following documents: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) 14 July 1942 dated document showing that Reida registered at the Police Headquarters of Gelsenkirchen, allowing for the creation of his military service record; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Reichsarbeitsdienst (National Labor Service), or RAD, discharge certificate dated 16 June 1943 stating that he served in the Labor Service from 28 January to 16 June 1943. Reida served with RAD-Abteilung 7\/162 (RAD Battalion 7\/162) in Bösingfeld in the municipality of Lippe; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) small document showing that Reida was examined for his fitness to become a flying personnel member on 19 August 1943. He was found unfit to be a paratrooper due to his weight (apparently, he was underweight or overweight);\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e4) preliminary document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen in Stoff (Paratrooper Badge in Cloth) issued on 13 March 1944 at Fallschirmschule I (Paratrooper School I) in Dreux, France (this school was formed in Dreux from Fallschirmschule; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4). Document is signed by Oberstleutnant (Lieutenant Colonel) Walter Primus, the commander of the school; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e5) award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) dated 15 May 1944, having a facsimile signature of Generaloberst Bruno Loerzer (Pour le Mérite and Knight's Cross). Reida obviously reached the weight requirement to become a paratrooper, either losing weight or gaining it;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e6) award document dated 14 September 1944 for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black) for suffering a wound on 21 August 1944. Fortunately, Reida's Feldpostnummer (Military Mail Number) appears on the document, that is, L 49014, which was assigned to Fallschirm-Nachrichten-Abteilung 12 (Paratrooper Signal Battalion); 12), which was part of the Il. Fallschirmkorps (lInd Paratrooper Corps), which was engaged in Normandy, including St. Lô. The document is signed by an Oberleutnant (1st Lieutenant) who served as the temporary commander of the battalion; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e7) typed career summary covering Reida's service from 28 January 1943 through the end of the war. Document lists the exact locations of Reida's deployments from 29 March 1944, and reveals that he was wounded in St. Lô on 21 August 1944 - 20+ locations are noted. His unit surrendered in Brekendorf in Schleswig-Holstein, and Reida subsequently was interned as a POW in Friedrichskoog near Warne; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e8) small document dated 11 June 1945 giving his POW unit assignment; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e9) document dated 10 July 1945 regarding soap issuance while serving with the 3rd Company of Battalion 406 b;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e10) small document written in pencil by Reida covering his POW captivity from 10 July 1945 to 22 July 1945 (it appears Reida was released on this date). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51049942122802,"sku":"D-202","price":800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27018.jpg?v=1775680892"},{"product_id":"paratrooper-document-and-photo-grouping-to-feldwebel-sergeant-hans-conrad","title":"Paratrooper Document and Photo Grouping to Feldwebel (Sergeant) Hans Conrad","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eParatrooper Document and Photo Grouping to Feldwebel (Sergeant) Hans Conrad-The grouping consists of the following: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Small snapshot of Conrad wearing full paratrooper gear— the caption on the reverse reads December 1940, just before my first jump at -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit); next, a postcard size photo of Conrad with a comrade — in the photo, Conrad wears his Iron Cross 1st Class medal and Iron Cross 2nd Class ribbon; last, three large PX photos showing paratrooper training jumps - these mass-produced photos were sold at shops at military bases (known as military exchanges or PXs in American terminology); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Large, early award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) issued in Berlin on 11 February 1941. Document has a facsimile signature of Generalleutnant Gustav Kastner-Kirdorf (awarded the German Cross in Gold on 21 April 1943; committed suicide in Berchtesgaden on 4 May 1945); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) Award document for the Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) issued on 12 June 1941, showing that Oberjäger Conrad was assigned to the 14. Sturm-Regiment (14th Company of the Assault Regiment). The document is signed by Generalmajor Eugen Meindl, the Commander of the elite paratrooper Sturm-Regiment (Assault Regiment); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4) Award document for the Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 1st Class) issued on 22 June 1941, also showing that Oberjäger Conrad was assigned to the 14. Sturm-Regiment. This document is signed by General der Flieger (Full General), Kurt Student, the Kommandierender General der Fallschirmjäger (Commanding General of Paratroopers. Conrad's Iron Cross documents were awarded to him for his actions during the invasion of Crete in May 1941 (the Meindl and Student signatures are absolutely top shelf for such a Crete document grouping); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e5) Award document for Die Medaille Winterschlacht im Osten 1941\/42 (Medal for the Winter Battle in the East 1941\/42), also known as the Ostmedaille (East [Campaign] Medal), issued on 24 August 1942, when Conrad was still serving with the 14. Sturm-Regiment. Document is signed by Major Walter Gericke (Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves Recipient and German Cross in Gold Recipient), the Commander of the Il. Bataillon of the Sturm-Regiment (IInd Battalion of the Assault Regiment); in addition to this document, there is a document dated 20 April 1943, regarding Conrad's award of the Ostmedaille. At this time, Conrad was assigned to the 7.\/Erdkampfschule der Luftwaffe (7\" Company of the Ground Combat School of the Air Force); the 6.\/Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 6 (6th Company of Paratrooper Regiment 6) forwarded his awarded document to the ground combat school and requested that the actual medal be presented to Conrad; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e6) award document for the Erdkampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe (Ground Combat Badge of the Air Force) dated 30 October 1942. The document reveals that it was awarded to Conrad as a member of the 14. Sturm-Regiment. It is hand-signed in purple pencil by General der Flieger Kurt Student, who then was the Commanding General of the XI. Fliegerkorps (XI Air Corps); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e7) Award document for the Ärmelband (Crete Cuff Title) issued on 12 November 1942. The document is signed in blue ink by General der Flieger Kurt Student, the Commanding General of the XI. Fliegerkorps; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e8) Promotion document issued on 20 April 1943 promoting Conrad from Oberjäger to Feldwebel. The document reveals that Conrad was a member of the 6.\/Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 6 (6th Company of Paratrooper Regiment 6); this regiment was previously designated as the Sturm-Regiment (Assault Regiment). The document is signed by Major Walter Gericke.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51049950413106,"sku":"D-206","price":2500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27042.jpg?v=1775681257"},{"product_id":"exceptional-paratrooper-document-grouping-to-gefreiter-wilhelm-preute","title":"Exceptional Paratrooper Document Grouping to Gefreiter Wilhelm Preute","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eExceptional Paratrooper Document Grouping to Gefreiter Wilhelm Preute-Preute was a paratrooper who participated in the 1940 Holland jump! The grouping consists of the following: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Large award document issued to Preute in Berlin on 7 September 1938; document is signed by Oberst (Colonel) Karl Barlen (German Cross in Gold Recipient); when Barlen signed the document, he was a Section Chief in the Personnel Office of the Air Ministry (RLM); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Award document for die Medaille zur Erinnerung den 1. Oktober 1938 mit Spange (Medal in Remembrance of 1 October 1938 with Clasp), commonly known as the Sudetenland Medal. Document was issued on 20 June 1939 and is signed by Oberstleutant von Grazy, the Battalion Commander of the 1st Battalion of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e3) Large award document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black) issued to Prete in Munster in July 1940. As a member of the 1st Company of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 2, Preute jumped in Holland on 10 May 1940 (along with the 2nd and 4th Companies of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 2, the 1st Company was deployed to take control of the Ypenburg and Valkenburg Airfields near den Haag). The document is signed by Hauptmann Hans Kroh, the battalion commander of the 1st Battalion of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 2 (Kroh was a recipient of the Knight's Cross, Oak Leaves, and Swords, as well as the German Cross in Gold). Kroh was one of the most renowned paratrooper commanders; much information about him can be found on the internet; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4) Award document for the Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) issued to Prete in den Haag on 26 May 1940, just six days after the Holland jump. The document is signed by Generalmajor Karl Putzier, the Deputy Commander of the 7 Air Division (German Cross in Silver Recipient); 5) Award document for the Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse (Iron Cross 1st Class) issued to Preute in den Haag on 26 May 1940. This document is also signed by Generalmajor Karl Putzier; it's interesting to note that both Iron Cross documents were issued on the same day, demonstrating his exceptional performance on 10 May 1940;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e6) Large award document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Gold (Wound Badge in Gold) issued to Preute in the Luftwaffe hospital in Berlin on 26 August 1940. The document is signed by Dr. Hans Kitzler-Kosch, the Chief Medical Doctor of the hospital. The fact that Preute was awarded the Wound Badge in Gold shows that he was heavily wounded during the 10 May 1940 jump in Holland. This wound most likely caused severe injury, likely leading to an amputation, taking Preute out of the war. Documents for paratroopers who jumped in Holland on 10 May 1940 are extremely rare and sought after. A rare opportunity to acquire a remarkable document grouping for a paratrooper who fought with extreme bravery and was heavily wounded during one of the most notable paratrooper jumps of the Second World War. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51049954509106,"sku":"D-207","price":2900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27051.jpg?v=1775681353"},{"product_id":"desirable-paratrooper-document-grouping-of-knights-cross-recipient-and-hermann-goring-division-member-unteroffizier-heinrich-heinz-probst","title":"Desirable Paratrooper Document Grouping of Knight's Cross Recipient and Hermann Göring Division Member Unteroffizier Heinrich \"Heinz\" Probst","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eDesirable Paratrooper Document Grouping of Knight's Cross Recipient and Hermann Göring Division Member Unteroffizier Heinrich \"Heinz\" Probst-The grouping consists of the following: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Field-made award document for the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) issued to Probst on 11 November 1943. The document reveals that Probst was then a Panzer-Grenadier (Armored Infantryman) with the 6.\/Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 1 (6th Company of Armored Infantry Regiment 1 \"Hermann Göring\"). The document is signed by the Stellvertretender-Kommandeur (Deputy Commander) of the Division Hermann Göring (Hermann Göring Division). At the time the award was given, the division was fighting in Italy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Ornate award document for the Erdkampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe (Ground Combat Badge of the Air Force) dated 29 February 1944 and signed by Generalleutnant (Three Star General) Paul Conrath (Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves and German Cross in Gold), the divisional commander of Fallschirm-Panzer-Division (Paratrooper Armored Division) \"Hermann Göring\". The document was issued when Probst was still serving with the 6.\/Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 1 \"Hermann Göring\"; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) Award document for the Eiserne Kreuz 1.Klasse (Iron Cross 1 Class) issued to Probst on 17 November 1944. At that time, Probst was assigned to the 1.\/Fallschirm-Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 4(1st Company of Paratrooper Armored Infantry Regiment 4 \"Hermann Göring,\") part of Fallschirm-Panzer-Grenadier-Division 2 \"Hermann Göring,\" which was engaged on the Eastern Front. The document is signed by an Oberst (Colonel) in proxy for the divisional commander;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4) Award document issued on 21 March 1945 for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Silber (Wound Badge in Silver) for being wounded for the third time on 17 January 1945. The document is signed by the Chief Medical Doctor of a military hospital in Saalfeld\/Saale; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e5) Probst's Erkennungsmarke (Dog Tag) issued when he was a recruit with the 1.\/Ersatz-und-Ausbildungs-Regiment (1st Company of Replacement and Training Regiment \"Hermann Göring\"). Dog tag retains its original neck cord. Unteroffizier Heinrich Probst was awarded the Knight's Cross on 26 March 1945 as a Zugführer (Platoon Leader) of Fallschirm-Panzer-Grenadier-Regiment 1 \"Hermann Göring.\" Probst's Knight's Cross recommendation reads as follows: Unteroffizier Probst has especially distinguished himself on account of the dutifulness and bravery he demonstrated whilst leading a Panzergrenadier Zug during the positional warfare around Hochfließ. On 15.01.1945 the Bolsheviks attacked with extremely powerful forces; however, Probst was able to repulse 3 attacks (each launched with 2 companies) in a massive expenditure of effort. The enemy then launched another 3 attacks, and because of their great superiority, they were able to capture the road junction on the right boundary of Probst's sector each time. However, on each occasion, Probst was able to throw them back during immediate counter-attacks. Then, after the 7th enemy attack, he launched a furious counter-attack with a handful of his remaining troops, throwing the Russians back more than 200 meters beyond the road, whilst also inflicting bloody losses upon them. Later, during the morning of the 17.01.1945, the enemy attacked in battalion strength, and repeatedly tried to force a breakthrough across the Grünweiden-Hochfleß road. However, Probst stood as a shining example of calm and ruthlessness, and thanks to this, he was able to repulse all attacks with just 10 men and 2 MGs. When the Russians managed to achieve a penetration 300 meters to the right of his sector with 60 men, Probst led a counter-attack with 6 men, and managed to eject the Russians from the trenches in close combat. The Russians then launched a renewed attack with 2 companies, but Probst was able to fiercely repulse them in a brutal battle despite having only 4 men and 1 MG left. He only pulled back, as per his orders, after he had been badly wounded. The Knight's Cross was reportedly bestowed upon Probst by General der Kavallerie (General of Cavalry Troops) Siegfried Westphal, the Chef des Generalstabes (Chief of the General Staff) of the Oberbefehlshaber West (Commander in Chief West).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eA very unique grouping to a Knight's Cross recipient. It's captivating to think that the dog tag was around Probst's neck at all times at the front, including when he carried out the actions for which he earned the Knight's Cross. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51049956901170,"sku":"D-208","price":3300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_Probst_27057.jpg?v=1775681438"},{"product_id":"paratrooper-document-grouping-to-martin-schmieder","title":"Paratrooper Document Grouping to Martin Schmieder","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eParatrooper Document Grouping to Martin Schmieder-The grouping consists of the following:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Award document for the Medaille zur Erinnerung den 1. Oktober 1938 (Medal in Remembrance of 1 October 1938), commonly known as the Sudetenland Medal. The document was issued in Wien (Vienna) on 6 September 1939 by authority of the Chief of Air Fleet 4 and Southeast Commander, General der Flieger Löhr. Signed by a Major of a Luftwaffe signal regiment; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Preliminary award document the Rumanian Medal for the Crusade Against Communism issued on 10 May 1942; document is signed by a Leutnant (2nd Lieutenant) and Adjutant of Feldpostnummer (Field Mail Number) 26162 (Luftverteidigungs-Nachrichten-Abteilung 6, or Air Defense Signal Battalion 6); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e3) Award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) issued in Berlin on 25 August 1942. Document has a facsimile signature of General der Flieger (Full General of Flying Troops) Gustav Kastner-Kirdorf (awarded the German Cross in Gold on 21 April 1943; committed suicide in Berchtesgaden on 4 May 1945). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51049958670642,"sku":"D-209","price":650.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27063.jpg?v=1775681512"},{"product_id":"document-grouping-to-obergefreiter-helmut-thiele","title":"Document Grouping to Obergefreiter Helmut Thiele","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eDocument Grouping to Obergefreiter Helmut Thiele-The grouping consists of the following documents: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) issued in Berlin on 15 March 1943. Document has a facsimile signature of General der Flieger (Full General of Flying Troops) Gustav Kastner-Kirdorf (awarded the German Cross in Gold on 21 April 1943; committed suicide in Berchtesgaden on 4 May 1945); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e2) Award document for the Erdkampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe (Ground Combat Badge of the Air Force) dated 1 April 1944. The document reveals that Thiele was assigned to Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 8 of the 3. Fallschirmjäger-Division (3rd Paratrooper Division). Document is signed by Generalleutnant Richard Schimpf (Knight's Cross on 6 October 1944 and German Cross in Gold on 1 January 1945), the divisional commander of the 3. Fallschirmjäger-Division. An Obergefreiter Helmut Thiele, born on 9 September 1915, appears on the German War Graves website. This Helmut Thiele was killed in action on 20 February 1945 and is buried in the German Military Cemetery in Sandweiler, Luxembourg, where other members of the 3. Fallschirmjäger-Division were interred after the fighting in the area of the Eifel Mountains, namely Prüm. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51052211863858,"sku":"D-210","price":800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27067.jpg?v=1775732655"},{"product_id":"document-grouping-to-paratrooper-gefreiter-johann-hans-kapeller","title":"Document Grouping to Paratrooper Gefreiter Johann \"Hans\" Kapeller","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eDocument Grouping to Paratrooper Gefreiter Johann \"Hans\" Kapeller-The grouping consists of the following:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Award document for the Fallschirschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) issued in Berlin on 23 September 1942. Document has a facsimile signature of Generalleutnant Gustav Kastner-Kirdorf (awarded the German Cross in Gold on 21 April 1943; committed suicide in Berchtesgaden on 4 May 1945); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Award document for the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) issued to Kapeller on 7 June 1943. The document reveals that Kapeller was a member of the 14.\/Fallschirmäger-Regiment 4(14th Company of Paratrooper Regiment 4) of the 7. Flieger-Division (7th Airborne Division), which was previously engaged in Witebsk and Smolensk. The document is signed by Generalmajor Richard Heidrich (Knight's Cross with Oak leaves and Swords, German Cross in Gold), the divisional commander of the 7. Flieger-Division; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e3) Award document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Silber (Wound Badge in Silver) dated 10 June 1943, showing that Kapeller was wounded for the fourth time on 20 March 1943 while serving with the 14.\/Fallschirmjager-Regiment 4. The document is signed by the Chief Medical Doctor at Reserve Hospital IV in Regensburg. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51052212977970,"sku":"D-211","price":1150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27070.jpg?v=1775732750"},{"product_id":"photo-and-award-documents-grouping-to-feldwebel-sergeant-rolf-begander-paratrooper-reconnaissance-soldier-and-commando-of-otto-skorzenys-panzerbrigade-150","title":"Photo and Award Documents Grouping to Feldwebel (Sergeant) Rolf Begander - Paratrooper, Reconnaissance Soldier, and Commando of Otto Skorzeny's Panzerbrigade 150!!","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003ePhoto and Award Documents Grouping to Feldwebel (Sergeant) Rolf Begander - Paratrooper, Reconnaissance Soldier, and Commando of Otto Skorzeny's Panzerbrigade 150!!-The group includes:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Four photos (copies) of Rolf Begander, one in his Reichsarbeitsdienst (National Labor Service) uniform and three in various Army uniforms; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Oilcloth personal ID dated 3 December 1937 issued by the Police President in Leipzig; had an attached photo of Begander at one time, but it was removed, most likely for reuse on another ID; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) Invoice, presumably for Begander's brother, Emil, dated 28 January 1938 issued in Wermsdorf by the Saxon Riding and Driving School. The invoice for 132.85 Reichsmarks is for an apprenticeship fee, board, housing, 1 polishing pad, cleaning items, wash money for bedding and drill equipment, and loan money for boots; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4) Award document for the Deutsche Schutzwall-Ehrenzeichen (German Protective Wall Honor Decoration), better known as the West Wall Medal, issued in Berlin on 1 August 1940. The document reveals that Begander was an Arbeitsmann (Laborer) assigned to RAD-Abteilung (Labor Service Battalion) 6\/80 (SXV) in Zweibrücken-Fasanerie II. The document has a facsimile signature of Otto Meissner, the Minister of State of the Presidential Chancellery of the Führer and Reich Chancellor; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e5) Large award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) issued in Berlin on 30 October 1940. Document has a facsimile signature of Generalleutnant Gustav Kastner-Kirdorf (awarded the German Cross in Gold on 21 April 1943: committed suicide in Berchtesgaden on 4 May 1945); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e6) Award document for Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black) for being wounded on 5 June 1942 when Begander was a member of the 2.(Radfahr) Schwadron\/Aufklärungs-Abteilung 132(2nd (Bicycle) Squadron of Reconnaissance Battalion 132) of the 132. Infanterie-Division (132nd Infantry Division). Document is signed by Obertletnant (Lieutenant Colonel) Janus, the Battalion Commander of Reconnaissance Battalion 132; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e7) Award document for Die Medaille Winterschlacht im Osten 1941\/42 (Medal for the Winter Battle in the East 1941\/42), also known as the Ostmedaille (East [Campaign] Medal). Document is dated 12 August 1942 and is signed by Oberleutant (First Lieutenant) Jeranz(?); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e8) Award document for the Krimschild (Crimean Shield) dated 16 December 1942. Document has a facsimile signature of Generalfeldmarschall (Field Marshal) Erich von Mannstein, the Commander in Chief of the 11. Armee (11 Army); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e9) Award document for the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2\"d Class) issued to Begander on 15 October 1943 when he was assigned to the 2.\/Füsilier-Battalion 132(2nd Squadron of Reconnaisannce Battalion 132). The document is signed by the divisional commander, an undetermined Generalmajor;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e10) Discharge certificate dated 6 December 1945. Includes details concerning his wounds;\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e11) Ten postwar documents: 1) Personal ID issued in Lüdenscheid on 10 November 1945; has a thumb print and once had a photo of Begander, which was removed, most likely for reuse on another form of identification; 2) Document granting Begander benefits for health issues caused by wartime wounds; the benefits were valid from 25 March to 30 June 1946; 3) Ardust 1947 by the Greater Hessian State Ministry giving him so-called \"Youth Amnesty,\" which discontinued proceedings against Begander regarding his association with National Socialism and militarism; 4) Legitimation Card for Merchants, Sales Representatives, and Commercial Travelers, issued on 30 December 1953; has a very nice attached photo of Begander; 5) Response letter from the Deutsche Dienststelle (German Agency) for the Notification of the Next of Kin of the Fallen of the former German Armed Forces dated 1 February 1956. Begander requested information regarding his military service on 10 October 1955. The document includes his dog tag inscriptions (he was issued two tags by different units during the war), a listing of his units from December 1939 to April 1944, and his promotions. 6) Press Identification for the Pforzheim Newspaper issued on 31 December 1963 and extended twice to 31 December 1964 and 31 December 1965. Has a nice portrait photo of Begander. 7) Firearms License issued on 30 December 1968 in Pforzheim permitting Begander to carry a Gaspistole (Gas pistol, a non-lethal, close-range defensive tool designed to resemble a real firearm, often firing tear gas or blank cartridges to deter attackers) during business trips within West Germany. Has a nice portrait photo of Begander; 8) Firearm Possession Card issued in Pforzheim on 25 October 1973. Document reveals that Begander owned a 9mm Arminius HW1G gas revolver; 9) Response letter that Begander had sent to the Bundesarchiv (National Archives) and Deutsche Dienststelle giving further details concerning Begander's military service. Units cover his RAD service in 1938 and military units from 1939-1945. Document reveals that he was wounded in Russia and hospitalized in Tilsit and Tapiau in East Prussia, and wounded again in Schierke in the Harz region in April 1945, and hospitalized in Hattingen in the Ruhr Valley. From April 1945 to December 1945, Begander was in American captivity and hospitalized in Lüdenscheid-Hellersen. The most interesting information in this document is that Begander was involved in various special operations with SS-Jagdverbänden (SS Fighter Formations), including the infamous Panzerbrigade 150, Otto Skorzeny's special unit that used captured U.S. clothing and equipment as part of \"Unternehmen Greif\" (\"Operation Griffin\") to infiltrate American Lines during the Battle of the Bulge. Panzerbrigade 150 was comprised of approximately 2,500 soldiers from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Waffen SS (Begander was one of the 1,000 Army soldiers). Much information concerning Panzerbrigade 150 and \"Unternehmen Greif\" can be found on the internet; 10) Another document from the Deutsche Dienststelle dated 2 October 1973 certifying Begander's military service from 1 November 1938 to 7 December 1945. Lastly, the grouping includes a Polaroid photo of Rolf Begander's grave, showing that he died on 5 February 2000. A highly interesting document grouping for a soldier who held multiple roles in the service and participated in special operations of the SS, including \"Operation Greif.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51052214681906,"sku":"D-212","price":2600.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27074.jpg?v=1775732876"},{"product_id":"paratrooper-document-grouping-to-oberleutnant-1st-lieutenant-hermann-raacke","title":"Paratrooper Document Grouping to Oberleutnant (1st Lieutenant) Hermann Raacke","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eParatrooper Document Grouping to Oberleutnant (1st Lieutenant) Hermann Raacke-He served with the Luftwaffe during the Spanish Civil War fought from 1936 to 1939. This grouping consists of:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Document issued on 31 March 1941 by Luftwaffenpersonalamt (Air Force Personnel Office) under the authority of the Reichminister der Luftfahrt (Minister of Aviation) and Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe (Commander in Chief of the Air Force), Hermann Goring, authorizing the following awards to Wachtmeister (Technical Sergeant) Hermann Raacke:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eGerman Spanish Cross in Silver with Swords; Spanish awards: Cruz roj del Merito Militar; and the Medalla de la Campana. Four additional Spanish awards were crossed out on the document.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e2) Award document for Die Medalle Winterschlacht im Osten 1941\/42 (Medal for the Winter Battle in the East 1941\/42), also known as the Ostmedaille (East [Campaign] Medal) issued on 5 August 1942. At this time, Raacke held the rank of Hauptwachtmeister (First Sergeant) and was serving with the Flakkolonne (Anti-Aircraft Column) of Gemischte Flakabteilung I.\/36 (mot) (Mixed Anti-Aircraft Battalion I.\/36 [motorized]). The document is signed by Oberst (Colonel) Dr. Hermann Stolte, who, at that time, commanded Flak-Regiment 10 (Anti-Aircraft Regiment 10), and was awarded the German Cross in Gold on 7 November 1942. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) Very late-war issued award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) issued at the headquarters of the Fallschirm-Armee-Oberkommando (Paratrooper Army High Command) on 6 December 1944 and signed by Generalleutnant (Three-Star General) Walter Lackner, the Stellvertretender Chef (Deputy Chief of the Fallschirm-Armee-Oberkommando). The document is the second rarest version of the Paratrooper Badge document. Raacke was most likely one of the very last paratroopers who received jump training at the Salzwedel Airbase in October 1944. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4) Award document issued on 13 April 1945 for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black) for having been wounded on 4 April 1945 while engaging British forces in Holland. The document reveals that Raacke was assigned to the 1.\/Fallschirm-Flak-Abteilung 6 (mot.) (1st Company of Paratrooper Anti Aircraft Battalion 6 [motorized]) of the 6. Fallschirmjäger-Division (6th Paratrooper Division). The document is signed by an Oberleutant of Raacke's company.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e5) Award document for the Eiserne Kreuz 1. Klasse (Iron Cross 1s Class) issued to Raacke on 9 April 1945. The document shows that Raacke was still a member of the 1.\/Fallschirm-Flak-Abteilung 6 (mot.). The document is signed by Generalletnant (Three-Star General) Hermann Plocher, the divisional commander of the 6. Fallschirmjäger-Division (6th Paratrooper Division), who was awarded the Knight's Cross and Oak Leaves, German Cross in Gold, and the Spanish Cross in Gold. When this document was issued, the 6. Fallschirmjäger-Division was engaging British forces in \"Festung Holland\" (\"Fortress Holland\"), where Plocher surrendered on 8 May 1945 at the time of the German capitulation. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51052215664946,"sku":"D-213","price":1850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27089.jpg?v=1775732954"},{"product_id":"paratrooper-award-document-grouping-to-feldwebel-sergeant-august-potowski","title":"Paratrooper Award Document Grouping to Feldwebel (Sergeant) August Potowski","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eParatrooper Award Document Grouping to Feldwebel (Sergeant) August Potowski-Potowski jumped on Crete and was captured in North Africa. This grouping consists of the following:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Award document for the Medaille zur Erinnerung den 1. Oktober 1938 (Medal in Remembrance of 1 October 1938 with Clasp), commonly known as the Sudetenland Medal, issued in Berlin on 20 June 1939. Document was issued under the authority of the Commander of the 7. Flieger-Division (7th Airborne Division), Generalmajor Kurt Student. The document is ink-signed by the battalion commander of the Ind Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1, Hauptmann Fritz Prager, who would be awarded the Knight's Cross on 24 May 1940. Prager died of cancer on 3 December 1940 in a military hospital in Frankfurt am Main; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Document dated 9 November 1939 issued in Braunschweig, stating that the Sudetenland Medal and award document were being sent to him. The document reveals that Potowski was a member of the 6.\/Fallschimjäger-Regiment 1 (6th Company of Paratrooper Regiment 1). The document is signed by Potowski's Kompanieführer (Company Commander), who held the rank of Leutant 2nd Lieutenant).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) Award document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black) issued on 15 July 1941, which shows that Potowski was assigned to the lInd Battalion of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1. This document reveals that Potowski was wounded on 20 May 1941 on the first day of \"Operation Merkur\" (\"Operation Mercury\"), the invasion of Crete. Document is signed by the regimental commander of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1, Oberst (Colonel) Bruno Bräuer (Knight's Cross and German Cross in Gold; executed for war crimes by Greece on 20 May 1947); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4) Letter dated 1 December 1942 to Potowski's mother, Maria, stating that her son, August Potowski, was listed as missing in action in the south of the El-Alamein Front on 5 November 1942. The letter further states that it is likely that he was taken into British captivity when parts of his company were cut off during an ordered withdrawal. The document is signed by an Oberletnant (1st Lieutenant) and Adjutant of Feldpostnummer (Field Mail Number) 43504 (2. Kompanie Lehr Battalion Fliegerkorps XI, or 2nd Company of the Instructional Battalion of the XI Air Corps; the Fallschirmjäger Lehr Battalion was formed by the cadre from the lind Battalion of Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1 in July 1940). Includes an acceptable translation of the letter. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e5) Award document for the Ärmelband \"Kreta\" (\"Crete\" Cuff Title) issued on 29 January 1943 having a facsimile signature of Der Kommandierende General des XI. Flieger-Korps (The Commanding General of the XI. Air Corps), General der Flieger (Full General) Kurt Student; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e6) Award document for the Ärmelband Afrika (Africa Cuff Title) issued on 1 May 1943 by authority of Der Oberbefehlshaber Süd (Commander in Chief South), Generalfeldmarschall (Field Marshall) Albert Kesselring, and ink-signed by a Major; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e7) Award document for the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) issued to Potowski on 28 May 1943 for his combat service on Crete. The document was actually issued on Iraklion, Crete, and is signed by the regimental commander of Fallschirmäger-Regiment 1, Oberst (Colonel) Bräuer (Knight's Cross and German Cross in Gold; executed for war crimes by Greece on 20 May 1947). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e8) Document sent from Latersdorf, Germany, on 26 April 1944, to Potowski's mother, Maria, by the Restkommando Lehrataillon XI (Residual Command of Instructional Battalion XI), stating that along with this document, she was being sent her husband's Kreta cuff title and the award document for it. The document further states that she is being asked to retain the cuff title and document for safekeeping until her husband returns from captivity. Lastly, she was informed that the cuff title and document were not to be sent to her husband while he was in captivity. Document is signed by an Oberfeldwebel (First Sergeant), who served as the Kommando-Führer (Command Leader). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e9) Document sent from Latersdorf, Germany, on 27 April 1944, to Potowski's wife by the Aufstellungstab Ramcke (Ramcke Formation Headquarters) stating that Potowski had been promoted to Feldwebel and that his pay rate would be increased. Document is signed by an Oberfeldwebel (First Sergeant), who served as the Kommando-Führer (Command Leader) of Aufstellungsstab Ramcke. This is a really nice grouping for a true paratrooper who fought with two elite units and was involved in two significantly historical German offensives. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51052216844594,"sku":"D-214","price":2700.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27093.jpg?v=1775733034"},{"product_id":"paratrooper-award-document-grouping-to-wilhelm-grossmann","title":"Paratrooper Award Document Grouping to Wilhelm Grossmann","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eParatrooper Award Document Grouping to Wilhelm Grossmann-The grouping consists of the following:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e1) Award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen (Paratrooper Badge) issued in Berlin on 19 June 1942, having a facsimile signature of General der Flieger Gustav Kastner-Kirdorf (awarded the German Cross in Gold on 21 April 1943; committed suicide in Berchtesgaden on 4 May 1945); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e2) Second-issue award document for the Fallschirmschützenabzeichen issued in Berlin on 18 October 1943. The document is signed by a Hauptmann (Captain) Saeger(?), a subordinate officer of General der Flieger Kastner-Kirdorf within the Luftwaffe Personnel Office of the Air Ministry. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e3) Certification document documenting Grossmann's military service from 21 July 1941 to 3 June 1943. As of 3 June 1943, he was deemed as unfit. This certification was signed by an Oberst (Colonel), the commanding officer of the Ausbildungs-und-Ersatz-Stelle of Luftgau VII (Training and Replacement Center of Air District VII) in München (Munich).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e4) Award document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz (Wound Badge in Black) dated 13 July 1943. The document, which was issued by Reserve Hospital VIl in München, reveals that Grossmann was wounded on 12 November 1942. Document is signed by Dr. Hölzel, the Chief Medical Doctor of Reserve Hospital VII; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e5) Award document for the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) issued to Grossmann on 1 November 1943. The document is signed by Generalmajor Walter Barenthin (German Cross in Gold), the divisional commander of the 2. Fallschirmjäger-Division (2nd Paratrooper Division); \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e6) Award document for the Verwundetenabzeichen in Schwarz dated 20 April 1944. The stamp is impossible to read, so it can't be determined what hospital Grossmann was interned in. The document is signed by the Chief Medical Doctor of the hospital. This document is unique in that Grossmann had already earned the Wound Badge in Black and for his second wound, he should have been awarded the Wound Badge in Silver. This is an error made by the hospital, which may not have had information on Grossmann's previous wound. The document reveals that Grossmann was a member of the 3.\/Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 2 of the 2. Fallschirmjäger-Division; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e7) Award document for the Erdkampfabzeichen der Luftwaffe (Ground Combat Badge of the Air Force) dated 25 June 1944 and hand-signed by Generalleutnant Bernhard Ramcke (Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds), the divisional commander of the 2. Fallschirmjäger-Division. Grossmann, who was still assigned to the 3.\/Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 2, along with the rest of the 2. Fallschirmjäger-Division, surrendered in Brest, France, on 20 September 1944. A great grouping for a long-serving paratrooper who earned several combat awards, and was captured by U.S. forces in France in 1944. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51052217958706,"sku":"D-215","price":2350.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Fallschirmjager_Document_27101.jpg?v=1775733115"},{"product_id":"incredible-gi-bring-back-grouping-of-japanese-and-other-wwii-artifacts","title":"INCREDIBLE GI Bring Back Grouping of Japanese and Other WWII Artifacts","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eINCREDIBLE GI Bring Back Grouping of Japanese and Other WWII Artifacts-This incredible grouping includes not one but two WWII Japanese army helmets, a helmet cover, a canteen, a meatball flag with kanji, a whip (from Australia) and the veterans sea bag. The veteran, whose name will be provided to the buyer, was with the ship PCS1457 in Pacific wartime operations. PCS-1457 supported the recapture of the Marianas, specifically Guam and Tinian landings with surveys before and after the invasion. After the Marianas operations the ship conducted general surveys in the Pacific until February 1945 when she conducted pre invasion surveys at Iwo Jima followed by surveys as the island was being secured. Charts resulting from surveys were printed on board USS Sumner with a survey team from that ship erecting a reference navigational signal atop Mount Suribachi. On 20 March 1945, PCS-1457 was reclassified as a Hydrographic Survey Ship (AGS-10) and four days later was renamed “John Blish.\" The survey vessel continued more routine survey work until the invasion of Okinawa where she again supported landings with hydrographic work. The ship earned 4 battle stars for World War Il service. The helmets are both type 90 army examples. Both are complete with liners and chinstraps. One is in fantastic condition, a choice example with kanji script at the back. The veteran wrote his initials on the liner band, “ABB”. The other is well used but still very nice. There is staining inside and some wear to the liner. Under one of the liner pads, on the liner band, there is writing that identifies the soldier as Otosuke Yamada who was a combat engineer. The meatball flag is silk and absolutely covered with kanji. It does have some stains as well. It measures 36” by 28” and has the reinforcements and ties intact. The helmet cover is for an army type 90 helmet. It is in great condition with extremely minor discoloration inside. It is well marked inside as well. It is dated 1942. The canteen is well worn and missing the cap. It is a neat item still and the veteran wrote his initials on this as well, this time on the strap The whip was brought home by Australia according to the family. It is rawhide with a leather tip and measures just over 100” not including the leather tip and leather wrist wrap. Finally, the sea bag for the veteran with his name in black script. This is absolutely a one of a kind grouping that was originally obtained from the family.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e5\/15\/26 update...one of our super researchers just located an old posting on  a forum which indicated that the Army type-90 helmet cover was\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cu\u003enot\u003c\/u\u003e part of the original Veteran lot. Here is the link:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.usmilitariaforum.com\/forums\/index.php?\/topic\/379815-us-navy-grouping-of-japanese-helmets-and-flag-brought-home\/\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.usmilitariaforum.com\/forums\/index.php?\/topic\/379815-us-navy-grouping-of-japanese-helmets-and-flag-brought-home\/\u0026amp;source=gmail\u0026amp;ust=1778903335819000\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw284AclEneCdXKQzxCnwc2p\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.usmilitariaforum.\u003cwbr\u003ecom\/forums\/index.php?\/topic\/\u003cwbr\u003e379815-us-navy-grouping-of-\u003cwbr\u003ejapanese-helmets-and-flag-\u003cwbr\u003ebrought-home\/\u003c\/wbr\u003e\u003c\/wbr\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTherefore, we intend to remove the helmet cover from the grouping and change the price to $4,400. Now, you have two options:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e1) you can still buy the grouping as-is for the time being for $5,500 or\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e2) You can buy the grouping for $4,400 without the helmet cover.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gmail_default\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThat's the bad news. The good news is that our #1 researcher has also located the Veteran's name and draft registration card which will allow you to do more research on the Veteran. See the photos for that.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51092180107570,"sku":"H-330","price":5500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_Japanese_Combat_Helmet_28702.jpg?v=1777056100"},{"product_id":"scarcely-encountered-named-third-reich-judicial-grouping-1","title":"Scarcely Encountered Third Reich Judicial Grouping","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eScarcely Encountered Third Reich Judicial Grouping-This awesome offering includes the robe and cap belonging to a judge. The robe is produced in a black cotton\/rayon blend material that remains in good condition. There is minor wear, discoloration and fading throughout. The cuffs are extra large and produced in soft black velvet. The collar is lined in black velvet; this extends down each side of the closure seam. The robe has a three hook and loop closures. There is a drop dead gorgeous, toned silver bullion army type eagle hand applied to the upper right breast. The interior, at the neck, has a tailor tag. This is unfortunately heavily worn and thus illegible. Next, the cap which is unique to judges. It is produced in the same black material as the robe (black velvet sides and black cloth top panel). The interior is fully lined in black rayon and there is a full brown leather sweatband. There appears to have once been a moisture shield but this is missing. The sweatband has a few tears but is very soft. This is a scarcely encountered grouping!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note that any \"accessories\" (i.e. medals, badges, belts etc.) are NOT included unless stated in description!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51119295299890,"sku":"U-120j","price":4200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1141\/9332\/files\/WW2_German_Judicial_Robe_Cap_28933.jpg?v=1777644302"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.therupturedduck.com\/collections\/researched-groupings.oembed?page=2","provider":"The Ruptured Duck, LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}