This exceptional archive comprises an almost continuous record of Hertel's military career from 1915 through the end of the Second World War with over 20 documents and includes:
Oberleutnant d.L.z.V. Willy Oskar Hertel (1889–after 1945)
Leib-Grenadier-Regiment Nr. 100 • Imperial German Intelligence Officer • Wehrmacht Staff Officer
Willy Oskar Hertel was born on 15 December 1889 in Glauchau, Kingdom of Saxony. Before the First World War he worked as a schoolteacher in Oberschöna. In 1915 he entered military service as an Einjährig-Freiwilliger (One-Year Volunteer), the traditional route for educated men seeking reserve officer commissions.
Hertel was posted to the prestigious 1. Königlich Sächsisches Leib-Grenadier-Regiment Nr. 100, one of the oldest and most distinguished regiments of the Saxon Army. Descended from the Saxon Leib Regiment founded in 1670, the regiment served with the 23rd Division of the XII (1st Royal Saxon) Army Corps during the First World War.
His surviving archive documents a remarkable military career. Early combat evaluations praise his courage, leadership, initiative, and ability to command under fire. In July 1916 he was officially commended in Corps Daily Orders for his "bold and skillful conduct" during dangerous reconnaissance patrols. His gallantry earned him the Friedrich August Medal in Silver, Iron Cross Second Class, Knight's Cross, Second Class of the Order of Albrecht with Swords, and later the Iron Cross First Class.
Recognizing his intelligence and analytical ability, the Army transferred Hertel to the Reconnaissance (Intelligence) Section of the XII Royal Saxon Army Corps. There he worked on civilian intelligence, political reporting, liaison with government authorities, intelligence organization, and the preparation of strategic memoranda. His commanding officers consistently praised his judgment, discretion, writing ability, and organizational skill.
During the war Hertel suffered a severe wound, losing the sight of one eye, for which he received the Wound Badge in Black. Despite this disability he remained highly valued, continuing his service in increasingly responsible staff appointments.
Following the First World War Hertel remained a reserve officer. Recalled during the Second World War, he was promoted to Oberleutnant der Landwehr z.V. Officer evaluations from 1942 and 1943 describe him as energetic, highly educated, dependable, and particularly suited for higher command and staff responsibilities. His final wartime decorations included the War Merit Cross with Swords, Second Class, and First. This is the first attributed Pickelhaube I have had in 50 years in!
Superb condition. $3250
