Hitler's Iron Crosses: The Unsung Valor of a Dispatch-Runner in World War I

The notorious Adolf Hitler is often remembered for his immense contribution to the horrors of World War II, but the recognition he received during the First World War is less known to the public. During the war, Hitler served as a dispatch-runner, a role that required tremendous courage and bravery. This article delves into the circumstances and achievements that led to his receiving the Iron Cross, both the First Class and the Second Class.

The Iron Cross, First Class (1918)

Hitler was awarded the Iron Cross First Class in 1918, an honor that was quite rare for a First Class Private to receive. According to the testimony of Lieutenant Hugo Gutmann, who awarded it to him, Hitler’s valor was recognized for his untiring and fearless activity. Gutmann highlighted,

“As a dispatch-runner he has shown cold-blooded courage and exemplary boldness. Under conditions of great peril when all the communication lines were cut, the untiring and fearless activity of Hitler made it possible for important messages to go through.”

To put Hitler’s achievement in context, his bravery was particularly commendable given the extreme conditions in which he operated. During the First World War, communication lines were often cut, leaving soldiers isolated and in need of vital messages. Hitler’s efforts were crucial in maintaining communication and facilitating coordination between combat units.

The Iron Cross, Second Class (1914)

The Iron Cross Second Class was awarded to Hitler earlier, during the First Battle of Ypres in 1914, for saving the life of Lieutenant-Colonel Philipp Engelhardt. The exact circumstances of this act of heroism are less clear, but it is generally believed that Engelhardt stepped out of cover to examine the terrain, a risky move that could draw fire. Hitler and another member of the 16th Regiment covered him with their bodies until he was safe. This act of bravery underscored Hitler’s willingness to take risks to ensure his comrades’ safety.

In addition to the Iron Crosses, Hitler was also awarded the Bavarian Military Merit Cross 3rd Class. Although the specific achievement for which he received this award is unknown, the cross itself was given to about one-third of Bavarian army soldiers, indicating a level of recognition that was still significant.

The Iron Cross: A Commendation of Valor

Hitler received the Iron Cross for his actions during the First World War as a dispatch-runner. This role required him to deliver important messages under fire, often while facing perilous conditions. The Iron Cross was one of the highest awards a non-officer could receive, equivalent in prestige to the Medal of Honor. It came with two ranks: the First Class, which Hitler received, and the Second Class, which he also wore.

The Iron Cross was divided into two classes: the Second Class, which was awarded for merit in combat, and the First Class, which could be awarded for further valor or for receiving the Second Class and performing additional acts of bravery. Above these were the Knight's Cross, which was the highest military honor of the Third Reich, and for a second award, oak leaves could be attached to the collar signifying the highest military recognition.

During the First World War, the Iron Cross was not limited to dispatch-runners; it was awarded to all frontline soldiers who demonstrated exceptional bravery and valour. The award system recognized not only the specific achievements of soldiers, such as tank destruction, but also their general bravery in the field of battle.

The Iron Cross, both the First and Second Class, was a symbol of the valor and bravery displayed by Hitler during his time as a dispatch-runner. While the context of his war service is often disputed, there is no denying the fact that Hitler’s efforts contributed to maintaining communication lines and facilitating crucial coordination during the war.

The Mythology of Wartime Service

Historians and others often discuss the mythological aspects of Hitler’s wartime service. The awards he received, such as the Iron Cross, are evidence of his bravery and contributions during the First World War. However, it is also important to note that Hitler’s dispatch-running was a role that required him to be in close combat situations, facing the same dangers as other frontline soldiers.

In the aftermath of the war, Hitler actively downplayed his military service, often claiming to have only served for a short time or not at all. This is reflected in historical records that show his contributions as a dispatch-runner were significant yet often overlooked.

Adolf Hitler’s time as a dispatch-runner during World War I is a reminder of the bravery and valor displayed by many soldiers, including him, during that time. While his wartime actions are often overshadowed by his later contributions to the war, they serve as a testament to his courage and dedication to his comrades.