Minifigure – German Waffen-SS Panzer (tank) commanders from World War II (LEGO Compatible)

This image displays a set of two toy minifigures and their accessories, representing two renowned German Waffen-SS Panzer (tank) commanders from World War II.

Here is a detailed description of each figure:

Figure on the Left: Michael Wittmann

This figure represents Michael Wittmann, widely regarded as one of the most famous and effective tank commanders in military history.

He is depicted wearing the black Panzer uniform (Panzerjacke), a tight-fitting, double-breasted jacket designed for tank crews. On his head, he wears a black M43 field cap (Einheitsfeldmütze) which features the SS eagle on the side and the distinctive Totenkopf (death’s head) insignia on the front.

His high rank and status are shown by the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross around his neck. He also wears a brown belt, which contrasts with the black uniform. He holds a black briefcase printed with a white Iron Cross.

Historical Background: Known as the “Black Baron,” Wittmann was an SS-Hauptsturmführer (Captain) who served in the 1st SS Panzer Division “Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler” and later commanded a Tiger I tank in the 101st SS Heavy Panzer Battalion. He is most famous for his ambush of a British armored column at the Battle of Villers-Bocage in 1944. He is credited with destroying nearly 140 enemy tanks before his death in Normandy.

Figure on the Right: Max Wünsche

This figure represents Max Wünsche, a highly decorated regimental commander in the German armored forces.

He is also wearing the black Panzer wrap uniform, identical in cut to Wittmann’s but with different insignia placement. He wears a black side cap (Schiffchen) rather than a visor cap, which features the SS eagle and a cockade.

The figure is highly decorated, reflecting Wünsche’s prestigious career. He wears the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves at his throat. On his right breast pocket is the German Cross in Gold, and on his left breast is the Iron Cross 1st Class. Like the other figure, he carries a black briefcase with an Iron Cross print.

Historical Background: Max Wünsche was an SS-Standartenführer (Colonel) who served as a personal orderly to Adolf Hitler early in the war before becoming a combat commander. He led tank units in the 1st SS Panzer Division and later commanded the 12th SS Panzer Regiment of the 12th SS Panzer Division “Hitlerjugend”. He was known for his youthful appearance and his leadership during the battles of Kharkov and the Falaise Pocket in Normandy.