Original Russian-printed leaflet from World War II, 1p. 8vo., [n.p.], Dec. 4, 1944, a 'message' from Graf Peter von Schmettov, Commander of the 24th Panzerdivison, designed to reassure troops that he is alive and well after being captured by the Russians. In part: 'To the comrades of the 24th Woithe Marching Battalion Panzerdivision! I have been in Russian captivity since December 1. In the reconnaissance troop of November 30th, when I had the order to explore the high 610 with…10 men, I suddenly encountered the enemy…I went into Russian captivity. I was well-received and treated and not as our propaganda and leadership says that German prisoners would be tortured and shot to death…Underofficers Sommer, Mein, Specialist Hermann have taken over…You will be fine and see your homeland again…'. With von Schmettov’s signature printed at the bottom. On the verso it reads: 'Captive Saved'. At the time of the message, the 24th was fighting in Poland and Hungary. Expected wear, otherwise very good.