Luftwaffe Honor Goblet to 'Hans Merz'

Description

Luftwaffe Honor Goblet (Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe). The "Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe" was established on 27 February 1940 by Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring, the Reichs Minister of Aviation and Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe. It was officially known as the Ehrenpokal "für Besondere Leistung im Luftkrieg" (Honor Goblet "For Special Achievement in the Air War"). The award was given to flying personnel (pilots and aircrew) only. Recipients names were published in the periodical 'Ehrenliste der Deutschen Luftwaffe' (Honor List of the German Air Force). German archives indicate that approximately 58,000 were given on paper, but only 13-15,000 goblets were actually awarded according to the records. The design of the goblot reflects that of the World War I goblet, the "Ehrenbecher für Sieger im Luftkampf". Superbly crafted by the firm of 'Joh. Wagner & Sohn' in Berlin which was the sole manufacturer ot this non-portable award. The goblet was awarded to aircrew members who had already been awarded the Iron Cross First Class but whose performance was not considered to merit the German Cross or Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. This goblet was awarded on 18 October 1942 to Oberfeldwebel 'Hans Merz', he served with the '10./Transportgeschwader 4'. Transportgeschwader 4 operated primarily on the Eastern Front and in the Mediterranean, where it carried out essential supply flights, troop transports, and evacuation missions under often dangerous conditions. he also received the German Cross in Gold on April 15, 1944. The goblet is made of silver-plated "Alpaka", also known as 'German Silver', the goblet is nicely maker marked by the company of 'Joh.Wagner & Sohn' from Berlin. Engraved on the goblet is the name and award date: "Oberfeldwebel Hans Merz, am 18.10.42". The goblet is free of dents, it is showing very nice and pronounced details. Interesting original piece of history!