2006-11-23 02:44:49 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Arts & Humanities ➔ History
The German Iron Cross in its various grades was awarded to all ranks of the Wehrmacht, Luftwaffe and Kriegsmarine to recognize officers and men for acts of bravery, heroism and leadership. It was first introduced on March 10, 1813 by King Frederick William III of Prussia, who was then at war against the French under Napolean. Since then it has gone through many evolutions and was reinstitued again by Adolf Hitler on 1st September 1939, in readiness for the Second World War.
The Knight's Cross and the Iron Cross are very similar in appearance. The difference was easily identified by which part of the uniform it was worn.
The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds was considered the highest order of decoration awarded by the German armed forces. It would be akin to our Congressional Medal of Honor.
2006-11-23 02:51:15 · answer #1 · answered by smilindave1 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Michel Witman, won the swords with Iron Cross on Oak Leaves for his tank exploits. He once stopped an entire Canadian division outside of Caen during the Normandy invasion with his Tiger tank.
2006-11-23 17:51:37 · answer #2 · answered by Its not me Its u 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Iron Cross is a German medal for bravery, much like the silver and bronze stars are for the U.S Army.
2006-11-23 10:46:09 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Im pretty sure it is for the German Lufftwatte [sp?], or the German Air Force
2006-11-23 12:15:18 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋