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Sunk the First American Warship (WWII)
TOPP, Erich (1914-2005) Third most successful German U-Boat Commander of WWII. Recipient of the Knights Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. He sunk 35 ships. Topp joined the Nazi Party in 1933. He became a Rear Admiral of the German Navy. He is noted for the sinking of the destroyer USS Reuben James on October 31, 1941. This was the first USN warship to be lost. On December 11, 1941, Hitler declared war on the United States. Topp was very critical of his superior Karl Donitz. At one time Donitz greeted Topp with a question: “I, understand you think I should have been executed?” Scarce autograph letter signed, one very full page, on his Diplomatic letterhead. Dated 8-1-07 to Mike Polk. Topp writes about a special signing of photos that on half is being sent because he is leaving Germany and coming back the next month to complete the signing. Especially nice to see this a.l.s. written in English. In fine condition...........................$185.00
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