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Ernst-Felix KruderGerman captain 1st rank
Date of Birth: 06.12.1897
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Otto Kretschmer: A Renowned Naval Commander
- Early Career and the Great War
- Interwar Years
- Command of the "Penguin"
- Awards and Recognition
- Iron Cross 2nd and 1st Class (1914)
- Tragic End
Otto Kretschmer: A Renowned Naval Commander
Otto Kretschmer, a German Captain of the 1st Rank (Kapitän zur See), was an esteemed commander of the auxiliary cruiser "Penguin" during World War II. His achievements earned him recognition as one of the most successful U-boat captains in the Kriegsmarine.
Early Career and the Great War
Kretschmer joined the Imperial German Navy in 1915, following his school graduation. He trained aboard the training ship "Freya" and was then assigned to the battleship "König," where he fought in the Battle of Jutland. After completing navigation courses, he became a watch officer on the cruiser "Breslau," participating in the breakout of "Goeben" and "Breslau" into the Black Sea in 1917. Subsequently, he transferred to "Goeben" and was promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade on December 13, 1917.
Interwar Years
In 1920, Kretschmer rejoined the navy. He held positions in the shore service and on minesweepers. From 1924 to 1926, he served on the Naval Staff in the Baltic Sea. Prior to World War II, he served on the cruisers "Karlsruhe" and "Königsberg."
Command of the "Penguin"
In November 1939, Kretschmer was appointed to command "Schiff 33," which was converted into the auxiliary cruiser "Penguin." With this vessel, he embarked on a devastating campaign against Allied shipping, sinking a total of 32 ships.
Awards and Recognition
Kretschmer's exceptional service was recognized with numerous awards, including:
Iron Cross 2nd and 1st Class (1914)
Gallipoli Star (January 23, 1918)Clasps to Iron Crosses (1939)
2nd Class (August 30, 1940)
1st Class (October 11, 1940)
Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves
Knight's Cross (December 22, 1940)
40th, Oak Leaves (November 15, 1941, posthumously)
Kretschmer's achievements were also acknowledged in the "Wehrmachtbericht" on June 26, 1941.
Tragic End
On May 8, 1941, while operating in the Indian Ocean, "Penguin" was intercepted and sunk by the British cruiser HMS Corsair. Kretschmer was among those killed in the engagement. He was posthumously awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to German naval warfare.
