Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross

Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. Obverse: A cluster of three vertical oak leaves with the middle leaf superimposed on the other two. Reverse: Plain and slightly concave, with two silver loop prongs to attach it to the cross suspender and thread on to the neck ribbon. Stamped 900 21.

Instituted in 1940 by Adolf Hitler as a grade higher to the Knight's Cross, oak leaves were awarded only to senior officers in recognition of tactical battles won. The oak leaves cluster is exactly the same as those awarded with the Pour Le Merite during the First World War. They were worn above the Knight's Cross , between it and the suspender. During the Second World War 882 clusters were awarded. All recommendations were individually approved by Hitler. This medal is part of a collection of Second World War German orders and decorations acquired by Flight Lieutenant K G Hesketh, RAAF Historical Records Section, who was based in London but who made a number of visits to Germany immediately after the Second World War.