Description
Julius “Papa” Ringel was one of the best-known German mountain troop commanders of WW2. A former Austrian Army officer incorporated into the Wehrmacht following the Anschluss, Ringel assumed command of the 5. Gebirgs-Division in 1940 and led the division during the Balkan Campaign and the invasion of Crete in 1941. The division later served on the Eastern Front and in Italy. Ringel was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross on June 13, 1941 for his leadership during the fighting in Greece and Crete, and received the Oak Leaves to his Knight’s Cross on October 25, 1943.
Made of period printed cardstock, this postcard is in EXCELLENT used condition! There is some very slight age-related yellowing, however there are NO tears, bends, creases, or other notable damage! The front features the printed Willrich portrait of Generalmajor Julius Ringel and retains his original wartime ink signature. The reverse remains fully legible and features the period handwritten address and wartime postal markings associated with the original autograph request and return. He also wrote, “Hurra die Gams!” (Hooray for the Chamois!), which is a famous Mountain Troop Slogan. The printing, handwriting, postal markings, and signature remain clearly visible throughout. Everything is 100% ORIGINAL, wartime manufacture and wartime signed, making this a VERY NICE personally autographed example connected directly with one of Germany’s most notable Gebirgsjäger commanders! PERFECT for any collection or display!
