Complete Knight's Cross: The Years of Victory 1939-1941

The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross is an award that was created in 1740. The Complete Knight's Cross volumes tell the story of all 7,364 men who were granted the award, including all the disputed awards. They have over 200 photos of holders of the medal and over 100 photos of their graves.

Format: Hardback
Length: 356 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2021
Publisher: Fonthill Media

The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross, known by its full name, has its origins in the Pour le Merite (Blue Max), an imperial award dating back to 1740. The Complete Knight's Cross volumes, which encompass the stories of all 7,364 individuals who received this prestigious honor, provide a comprehensive account of their achievements. These three volumes feature over 200 photographs of medal holders and over 100 photographs of their graves, adding a poignant dimension to the narrative.

Volume One, titled "The Years of Victory," delves into the period from 1939 to 1941, covering the first 1,267 recipients. It offers a detailed account of the heroic actions and sacrifices of these individuals during the early stages of World War II.

Volume Two, titled "The Years of Stalemate," continues the story from 1942 to 1943, encompassing the second batch of 3,685 recipients. It sheds light on the challenges and hardships faced by the German military during this period of stalemate and intense warfare.

Volume Three, titled "The Years of Defeat," concludes the series by covering the final 3,686 recipients from 1944 to 1945. It explores the devastating toll of the war on the German forces and the resilience of those who continued to fight against overwhelming odds.

The recipients are listed in chronological order based on the date of their award. Each entry begins with the recipient's rank and name, followed by a detailed account of the actions or actions that led to their conferment of the Knight's Cross. Additional interesting facts and stories are included for many of the awards, providing a deeper understanding of the individuals and their contributions to the war effort.

Burial locations, whenever known, are also provided, offering a sense of closure and honoring the memory of these brave soldiers. Furthermore, the Complete Knight's Cross volumes also cover any higher awards, such as the Oak Leaves, Swords, Diamonds, and the ultimate Golden award, recognizing exceptional bravery and valor.

These volumes serve as a testament to the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of the recipients of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. They provide a valuable resource for historians, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about the history of World War II and the individuals who played a crucial role in shaping its outcome.

Weight: 858g
Dimension: 167 x 243 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781557815