Gallands Luftwaffe

Iron Cross 2nd Class

The Iron Cross 2nd Class was identical in shape to its predecessors, but the old crown, oak leaves and initials that decorated all previous Imperial Prussian Crosses gave way to the Nazi swastika. This grade, meant to reward single acts of bravery, was still highly regarded in the opening days of the war though in the later war years, and certainly during the crumbling of the German infrastructure toward the end of the conflict, it was presented with more liberalism. In spite of this the Iron Cross 2nd Class was valued and many of recipients proudly recall in detail the deeds for which they were presented the award.

 

 

 

The 2nd Class was presented in two ways; A blue paper envelope with gothic letters naming the award (“Eisernes Kreuz 2nd Klasse”), or a fitted simulated leather presentation case (the latter method was generally the case for privately purchased pieces or recipients of a higher rank).  The individual also received a standard award document, and the proper signatures and stamps were place in his Soldbuch and Wehrpass. 

There was only one official document for the 1st and 2nd Class, though small details may vary depending on the date and Military branch. The document was written in gothic or normal lettering with the name, rank, unit, and grade of the Cross being awarded and the proper signatures and stamps as illustrated to the right.  Usually there was no explanation in any Class of the actions that merited the award, though on very rare occasions the deed was described in the back and it was signed and stamped.

When presented, meaning during the award ceremony, the Iron Cross 2nd Class was suspended from the ribbon in the 2nd hole of the tunic. The actual Cross, however, was seldom worn after the initial presentation; this practice was reserved only for official functions and portraits.  Instead, for every-day wear, only the ribbon was worn either on a ribbon bar or through the 2nd buttonhole in traditional Prussian style. 

The official criteria for the award was a single act of bravery in the face of the enemy, or actions that were clearly above and beyond the call of duty.  It is worthy to note that it was also occasionally presented to military auxiliary personnel where the War Merit Cross without swords would have technically been more appropriate.

Approximately 3 million Iron Cross 2nd Classes were awarded, and though this is a high number it must be remembered that it was presented to Axis Allies and civilian uniformed organizations in addition to the armed forces.