Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. Johannes Erwin Eugen Rommel (15 November 1891 – 14 October 1944), known as The Desert Fox, was a German Generalfeldmarschall (field marshal) during World War II. He served in the Wehrmacht of Germany, as well as in the Reichswehr of the Weimar Republic, and Imperial German Army of the German Empire.

Rommel was a highly decorated officer in World War I and awarded the Pour le Mérite for his actions on the Italian Front. In 1937, he published his classic book on military tactics, Infantry Attacks, drawing on his experiences in that war. In World War II, he commanded the 7th Panzer Division during the 1940 invasion of France. His leadership of German and Italian forces in the North African campaign established his reputation as one of the ablest tank commanders of the war, and earned him the nickname der Wüstenfuchs, "the Desert Fox". Among his British adversaries he had a reputation for chivalry, and his phrase "war without hate" has been uncritically used to describe the North African campaign. Other historians have rejected the phrase as a myth, citing crimes against North African Jewish populations. Others note there is no clear evidence Rommel was involved in or aware of these crimes He later commanded the German forces opposing the Allied cross-channel invasion of Normandy in June 1944.

After the NSDAPs gained power, Rommel pledged allegiance to the new regime. However, historians have given different accounts of the specific period and his motivations. At least until near the war's end, he was a loyal supporter of Adolf H, but not to the NSDAP party and SS. In 1944, Rommel was implicated in the 20 July plot (or Operation Valkyrie) to assassinate AH. Subsequently, Rommel was given a choice between suicide or facing a trial that would result in his disgrace and execution. He ultimately chose the former and took a cyanide pill. Rommel was given a state funeral, and it was announced he had succumbed to injuries from the strafing of his car in Normandy. He is considered the best-known general on any side of World War II, with his actions in the war still attracting major attention until this day.

This is a really great letter signed by Erwin Rommel, one of the most well known generals in history. The frame doesn’t house the actual letter, only a copy of the signature, as the framer likely did not want it to suffer fading damage, so the letter is included outside of the frame. The frame houses a photo of Rommel over a scan of the signature, and measures 8 ⅛ x 12 ¼”. The letter itself measures 8 x 11” and shows very little wear overall besides staining from a paperclip.

The letter was for approval for award of the Iron Cross 1st Class for two men, dated March 30th, 1942. It is boldly signed in blue pencil by Erwin Rommel as commander of Panzerarmee Afrika. These two men were assigned to Rommel’s headquarters therefore requiring his signature for the approval. It comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

The actual letter should be framed with museum glass. A really great piece, ready for display.