Description:

JG-54 PROMOTION DOCUMENT SIGNED BY TWO KNIGHTS CROSS RECIPIENTS FOR A THIRD
A superb association war-date D.S., 2pp. 4to., [headquarters of Jagdeschwader 54], Jan. 20, 1944, a 'War Assessment' recommending that Hptm. SIEGFRIED SCHNELL (1916-Feb. 25, 1944) be promoted to the rank of major. Schnell is described as: 'Mature personality with impeccable character. Mentally and physically agile and resilient. Possesses all the skills and knowledge necessary for a troop leader, both for operations in the air and in troop service. Demonstrates impeccable character both internally and externally. Strengths: National Socialist attitude. Outstanding fighter pilot as a lone fighter and as a leader...' Schnell's many awards are noted on the document, including his Knights Cross, EKI, EKII, German Cross in Gold, etc. On the verso, the promotion is approved by another Knights Cross recipient from the same squadron, ANTON MADER (1913-1984). He claimed 86 victories and commanded the fighter wing Jagdgeschwader 54 for a time. Finally, at bottom there appears a signed typed addition by yet a third Knights Cross recipient, GUNTHER LUTZOW (1912-Apr. 24, 1945) as Commander of JG-1. He notes: 'Captain Schnell is suitable for promotion to Major based on his suitability and service record. He led his group well on the ground and in the air and himself achieved 16 aerial victories in the line of his command against counterattacks by the British Air Force, 10 of which were over four-engined enemy aircraft...' Lutzow accumulated 110 enemy aircraft shot down in over 300 combat missions before being KIA flying and Me-262 against American bombers over Germany. As for the unfortunate Schnell, the reason for the creation of this document, he would receive his promotion to major, but posthumously. On 1 February 1944, he was given command of IV. Gruppe of JG 54, based near Leningrad. After less than a month and three further aerial victories (for a total of 93), he was shot down and killed in his Messerschmitt Bf 109 G-6 over the Russian offensive for Narva on 25 February 1944. An excellent association of three Knights Cross recipients, two killed in action.

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March 26, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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