German Leadership

Grossadmiral Karl Donitz rallies the sailors ...

Donitz delivers a speech to U-Boat crew. An interesting aspect of this photo is that, in spite of the "active" location, one can just see both the Admiral's WW1 U-Boat Badge and his WW2 U-Boat Badge with Diamonds. The latter was an honorary award, not linked to any particular active service requirements; the former was an active combat badge in the usual German manner. The status of badges like this is highlighted by the distinction; these were not exactly "decorations", but "awards". The Wound Badge (after much debate) was similarly categorised during WW1. On the other hand, the WW2 Close Combat Clasp was reckoned a high decoration, notwithstanding the "award-like" qualifications for its bestowal. Forgive me, FTG (and any other proxi-Germans in the vicinity) - but it seems to me that Germans are particularly good at tying themselves up in debates of this nature. Best regards, JR.