During WW II, a total of 145 Knights Cross medals were awarded to men of the U-Bootwaffe. These include:

132nd was Oberbootsmaat RUDOLF MÜHLBAUER (1792-1991) on the crew of U-123. He was given the award because his eyesight was so good, making him an excellent lookout. The award was made 10 December 1944.

133rd was Oberleutnant zur See GÜNTHER PULST (330-+-1987) Skipper of U-978. The award was made 21 December 1944.

Top: GÜNTHER PULST in formal and relaxed poses

134th was Kapitänleutnant ROLF THOMSEN (6327-+-2001), Skipper of U-1202. The award was made 4 January 1945

Bottom: THOMSEN in a happy mood (l), getting his OAK LEAF (r)

135th was Korvettenkapitän Ernst Hechler, (photo r) Skipper of U-870. The award was made 21 January 1945.

More Ritterkreuzträger next month in KTB #179. In German, a “Ritter” is a rider, a mounted knight. “Kreuz” is a cross. “Träger” is one who holds or carries. Thus, a Ritterkreuzträger is one who holds or carries the Knights Cross. Thought you should know this information.