ALBERT KESSELRING KNIGHT'S CROSS OF THE IRON CROSS AWARD
ALBERT KESSELRING (1885 - 1960) German Luftwaffe Generalfeldmarschall. In a military career that spanned both World Wars, Kesselring became one of Nazi Germany's most skillful commanders, being one of 27 soldiers awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds. Historic partly-printed document, the bestowal of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross upon Kesselring, boldly signed with a very large signature by ADOLF HITLER in black ink at bottom. The full translation of the document is as follows: "In the Name of the German People I Award General der Flieger ALBERT KESSELRING the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross Fuhrer Headquarters the 30th of September 1939 The Fuhrer and Commander in Chief of the Wehrmacht [signed Adolf Hitler]". The hand-calligraphied bi-fold parchment document, 27" x 17", is secured with a red cord within a 14 1/4" x 17 3/4" (closed) maroon pebbled leather presentation folder with large gilt national eagle on the front cover and decorative gilt borders within. The name of Hitler's book binder and graphic designed Frieda Thiersch appears at the bottom of the inside rear cover. The document is in near pristine condition with virtually no flaws. The presentation folder is in better condition than is usually seen, with scattered spots, corner bumps, and dings. More importantly, nearly all of the gilding is completely intact. A fine, historic presentation. Kesselring was personally awarded the Knight's Cross by Adolf Hitler for his participation in the Polish Campaign. In that campaign, Kesselring's Luftflotte 1 supported von Bock's Army Group North. Kesselring's intense close air support of ground troops at critical points was essential in the destruction of the Polish armies. Kesselring was himself shot down over Poland by the Polish Air Force. In all, he would be shot down five times during the war. The date of Kesselring's award is significant - it is dated the same day as the German victory parade in Warsaw and it was issued on the first day that the Knights Cross of the Iron Cross was authorized to be issued!