Minifigure – Karl Dönitz the Großadmiral (Grand Admiral) and Commander-in-Chief of the German Navy (Kriegsmarine) during the later stages of World War II (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a toy minifigure and an accessory flag, representing Karl Dönitz, the Großadmiral (Grand Admiral) and Commander-in-Chief of the German Navy (Kriegsmarine) during the later stages of World War II.

Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz Minifigure

This figure represents Karl Dönitz in his full Grand Admiral’s service dress uniform. He is wearing a dark, double-breasted tunic and a Kriegsmarine officer’s peaked visor cap with the gold oak leaf embroidery (“scrambled eggs”) reserved for admirals.

His supreme rank and service history are indicated by his insignia and decorations:

• Shoulder Boards: The ornate shoulder boards represent those of a Grand Admiral, which historically featured crossed field marshal’s batons.
• Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves: Worn at his neck, this was a very high award for military valor and leadership.
• U-boat War Badge with Diamonds: This special and extremely rare award is shown on his left breast, signifying his status as the long-serving commander of the U-boat arm.

Historical Background: Karl Dönitz (1891-1980) was the architect of Germany’s U-boat strategy in the Battle of the Atlantic. As Commander-in-Chief of the U-boats, he was promoted to Grand Admiral in 1943, taking command of the entire German Navy. In his final will, Adolf Hitler designated Dönitz as his successor. As the last Head of State of Nazi Germany, it was Dönitz who authorized the unconditional surrender to the Allies in May 1945.

Grand Admiral’s Personal Standard

This accessory is a replica of the personal command standard of a Großadmiral. It consists of a white field with a large Iron Cross. In the center are two crossed admiral’s batons, the symbol of the highest naval rank. This flag would be flown from the flagship or displayed at the headquarters of the Grand Admiral to signify his presence.