This postcard bears the original signature of Colonel (Oberst) Otto Hitzfeld, one of the most distinguished German military commanders of World War II and recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes). The card originates from the renowned Hoffmann postcard series R 71, which was used during the war to distribute portraits of decorated soldiers.

Otto Hitzfeld was born on April 6, 1898, in Pforzheim and entered military service during World War I. After the war, he remained in the Reichswehr and steadily advanced through the ranks. By the outbreak of World War II in 1939, he had already built a considerable military career. Hitzfeld distinguished himself particularly through his leadership qualities and tactical acumen, which earned him numerous decorations.

The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross was instituted on September 1, 1939, by Adolf Hitler as a renewal of the Iron Cross and represented one of the highest military decorations of the German Reich. Hitzfeld received this award for extraordinary valor and military achievements in the field. During the course of his career, he was even awarded the Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross, which underscores his outstanding importance as a military commander.

The Hoffmann postcards were published by Heinrich Hoffmann's publishing house, who was known as Adolf Hitler's official photographer. This postcard series documented various Wehrmacht personalities and served both propaganda purposes and as collectibles. The R 71 series belonged to the professionally designed portrait series that featured high-ranking officers and Knight's Cross recipients. These cards were frequently signed by the depicted soldiers themselves and sent to family members, comrades, or collectors.

Hitzfeld's military career took him through various theaters of war. He commanded different units on the Eastern Front and later also in the West. His leadership qualities became particularly evident during critical phases of the war, when he led defensive operations and demonstrated tactical skill. After the war, he ultimately achieved the rank of General der Infanterie (General of Infantry).

The authenticity of signatures on such historical documents is of paramount importance for collectors and historians. An ink signature like the one described here was considered a personal gesture and significantly increases the historical value of the object. Unlike printed or stamped signatures, a handwritten signature demonstrates the personal involvement of the bearer.

After the war's end in 1945, many of these postcards entered private ownership and became sought-after collectibles. They document not only military history but also the propaganda and commemorative culture of the era. The condition grade 2 indicates a well-preserved card with only minor signs of use, which is remarkable for an object over 75 years old.

Otto Hitzfeld survived the war and passed away on April 20, 1990, in Freiburg im Breisgau. His military career and decorations make him a significant figure in German military history, whose memory is preserved in such authentic documents.