Formal Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross Document (Verleihungsurkunde zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) in Folder (Ritterkreuzmappe) as awarded to Oberst "Karl Arndt" on 23 January 1942. On 1 September 1939 Adolf Hitler reinstituted the Iron Cross series of awards in the First, Second and Grand Cross Classes and established the new Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross. The Knight's Cross was the highest award made by Nazi Germany to recognize extreme battlefield bravery or outstanding military leadership. Hitler reserved the right to personally authorize bestowal of the Knight’s Cross and all ranks were eligible for the award. In total it is estimated that roughly 7360 Knight’s Crosses were awarded during World War II. The Knight’s Cross award folder is measuring 36 x 45 cms, the folder is in good condition with some light scuffing to the exterior and some small damage at the corners. The folder contains a 4 page Knight’s Cross award document which is held in place by a red leather string. Centered on the lower edge of the rear inside cover is the stamp in gold of "Frieda Thiersch". The document states that the Knight’s Cross was awarded to Oberst "Karl Arndt" on 23 January 1942. 

Karl Hermann Arndt (10 March 1892 – 30 December 1981) was a German general in the Wehrmacht during World War II who commanded several divisions including the 293rd Infantry Division, 359th Infantry Division and XXXIX Panzer Corps. He participated in Invasion of Poland, Battle of France, Operation Barbarossa, Battle of Kiev, Battle of Moscow, Battle of Kursk, Belgorod-Kharkov Offensive Operation, Lower Dnieper Offensive, Lower Silesian Offensive, Upper Silesian Offensive and the Prague Offensive. He was awarded with the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 23 January 1942 as Oberst and commander of 'Infanterie-Regiment 511', the German Cross in Gold on 2 July 1944 as Generalleutnant in the '359. Infanterie-Division' and finally the Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross on 1 February 1945 as Generalleutnant and commander of '359. Infanterie-Division'.

The red Knight's Cross Mappe is still stored in its original protective carton box, his name is written on the box with pencil as typically done on these outer boxes. Original Knight's Cross Folders which belonged to an Oak Leaves recipient are hardly ever offered for sale. Extremely rare original piece of history!

Please note: this Knight's Cross Mappe is offered as a consignment and still in possession of the owner. Pick-up and/or delivery can be discussed. No payments by PayPal accepted for this item.