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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. Bonn, 6/12/72, Topp writes in German, translated: “Dear Mr. Koch, Please find enclosed the personal picture which is one of the last I have from the war. You can read facts about me including my special ex-prisoner in the Bookmans Such Was The Submarine War by Harold Busch, Heimat Publishing Company, Bielfeld. Kind Regards, Eric Topp,Rear Admiral, Ret.” In very fine condition...........$185.00
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