Jochen Peiper as SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer smiles for the camera.  Best regards, JR.

You're never fully dressed without a smile ...

Paul Hausser, "father of the Waffen-SS", wearing the Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords, and the insignia of SS-Oberstgruppenfuhrer and Generaloberst of the Waffen-SS.  Hausser was one of only four men accorded this rank (and one of those - Franz-Xavier Schwarz - is counted as an honorary appointment).  This 'photo probably dates from the last days of the war - Hausser was severely wounded (almost killed or captured) in the German breakout from the Falaise Pocket in Normandy, only returning to duty at the beginning of 1945.  Best regards, JR.

Papa Hausser.

Joachim "Jochen" Peiper (1915-1976) during "Unternehmen Zitadelle" (aka Battle of Kursk). Russia, July 1943.