Lot 452

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Description:

WILHELM KEITEL
(1882-1946) German field marshal and army chief of staff under Adolf Hitler, convicted of war crimes and executed at Nuremberg. KEITEL SEEKS EASTERN QUARTERS FROM THE SS, DAYS AFTER DELIVERING PLANS FOR 'BARBAROSSA' Important, fine content T.L.S. with holograph subscription on his official O.K.W. letterhead and stamped 'Secret Commando Operation', 2pp. 4to., Berlin, Dec. 8, 1940 to Reichsfuhrer-SS HEINRICH HIMMLER (1900-1945). Only three days after Keitel, Jodl, and their subordinates delivered to Hitler their plans for the invasion of the Soviet Union, Keitel writes, in part: '...As I have been informed, at this advanced time of year there are difficulties with the accommodation and the regular operation of the Wehrmacht's transport system in the eastern areas, especially in East Prussia, in the Reich districts of Danzig-West Prussia, in Wartheland and in the General Government...The additional tasks presented must be overcome as quickly as possible. The Wehrmacht, for its part, has already relocated all replacement training units to the interior and the west of the Reich. At the request of the Wehrmacht High Command, the Office for People's Welfare also promised not to carry out long evacuation transports into these areas. In order to gain further space, I ask that the SS and police training units housed in these rooms...must be accommodated elsewhere. I ask for the accommodations gained in this way to be provided for the Wehrmacht. The High Command of the Wehrmacht will take steps to ensure that the SS and police units relocated from the eastern region will receive assistance from the Wehrmacht if necessary, after appropriate registration, and if necessary, with other accommodation. I would be grateful if you could inform me of the arrangements you have made....' The letter is initialed by Himmler at the head of the first page in green indelible pencil, as was his custom. Staple holes at top, marginal file holes and folds, else very good. A very significant letter.

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November 29, 2023 10:00 AM EST
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $999,999 $10,000
$1,000,000 $1,999,999 $50,000
$2,000,000 + $100,000