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Gallands Luftwaffe |
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Iron Cross 1st Class
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The Iron Cross 1st Class was
presented considerable more sparingly than the 2nd Class
and therefore held more prestige. Unlike previous
versions of this Iron Cross Class it was highly
standardized, and like all 1939 Classes all imperial
symbols were removed.
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| In order to receive the Iron
Cross 1st Class Heer and Waffen SS men would have to
perform three to four further acts of courage from the
one that earned him the 2nd Class. The Luftwaffe and
Kriegsmarine had similar criteria, and in addition the
award was regularly awarded to U-boat Commander upon
sinking 50,000 tons and to Lufftwaffe pilots when they
achieved six or seven confirmed kills. Of course these
were only guidelines, and a single act of great
importance or a long steady career could earn the
individual the Cross. Between 300,000 and 575,000 Iron Cross 1st Class were awarded during World War II. |
