Vintage 3.25x5.25 sepia photograph signed in blue ballpoint ink by Max Schäfer.  Excellent condition. 

(1907-1987) Max Schäfer was a Standartenführer (Colonel) in the Waffen-SS, during World War II who was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves. The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross and its higher grade Oak Leaves was awarded to recognize extreme battlefield bravery or successful military leadership. Schäfer then commanded a platoon in the 2nd Company, SS Pioneer Battalion during the Polish Campaign and the Battle of France. Late in 1940, he was promoted to command the 2nd Company, 5th SS Pioneer Battalion, which from June 1941 was involved in the invasion of Russia (Operation Barbarosa). From October 1941, he was commander of the 5th SS Pioneer Battalion, which at the time was operating in the Don and the Caucasus regions.

Schäfer was awarded his Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross, for his command during the defence of the Stalinsky sector and the numerous battles his unit was involved in the period between January 1943 and early February 1943.

In May 1943, Schäfer became the commander of all pioneers in the III SS Panzer Corps serving with distinction at Leningrad and Oranienbaum. He was awarded the Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross in January 1945.

Schäfer was made a prisoner of war by the advancing British forces on 14 May 1945 and released from captivity on 8 November 1948.

Military Awards and Decorations

• Iron Cross (1914) 2nd Class and 1st Class – WWI

• Clasp to the Iron Cross (1939) 2nd and 1st Class – WWII

• German Cross in Gold – for repeated acts of leadership and bravery

• Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross – Awarded 14 May 1944, as Generalmajor and commander of the 356th Infantry Division

Comes with a full Letter of Authenticity from Todd Mueller Authentics.