The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Wehrmacht
Walter Model (1891–1945): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 24 January 1891, Genthin |
|---|---|
| Died | 21 April 1945, near Duisburg (suicide) |
| Key commands | Generalfeldmarschall (1 March 1944); Army Group North, North Ukraine and Centre (1944); Commander-in-Chief West and Army Group B (from 16 August 1944) |
| Documents bearing his name | Army group command documents, award papers, signed photographs |
| In the collection | No pieces currently available |
Walter Model was sent by Hitler from one crisis to another in the last years of the war. He commanded several army groups in quick succession and ended the war in the Ruhr pocket, where he took his own life.
Who Was Walter Model?
Model was born in Genthin in 1891. He became Generalfeldmarschall on 1 March 1944. In 1944 he commanded Army Group North, Army Group North Ukraine and, for a time, Army Group Centre, and from 16 August 1944 he was Commander-in-Chief West and commander of Army Group B. On 17 April 1945 he dissolved his army group in the Ruhr pocket.
What Documents Bear Model’s Signature?
His signature appears on army group documents, award papers and signed photographs. His rapid changes of command make dates and unit designations a strong test of authenticity. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Field marshal only from 1 March 1944.
- Check army group against the date.
- Nothing can postdate April 1945.
Fate
Model took his own life near Duisburg on 21 April 1945, four days after dissolving his army group.
Collector’s Note
With Model, the unit designation is my first check. In 1944 he could change army group within weeks, and a genuine document reflects exactly where he was at that moment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When did Model become a field marshal?
On 1 March 1944.
What happened to Model?
He took his own life near Duisburg on 21 April 1945.
Which army groups did Model command?
Among others North, North Ukraine, Centre and B.
Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts of the National Socialist period for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology, and it is written in memory of the victims of the regime.
References & Further Reading
- Bradley, D. (1994) ‘Model, Walter’, Neue Deutsche Biographie, 17, pp. 597–598.