Georg-Wolfgang Feller

Who was Georg-Wolfgang Feller?

Wolfgang Feller was an Oberleutnant zur See of the Reserves, in the German navy during World War II. He is noted for being the last soldier, sailor or serviceman to receive the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross was awarded to recognise extreme battlefield bravery or successful military leadership.

Großadmiral Karl Dönitz had ordered a cease of all promotions and awards as of 11 May 1945. Nevertheless a number of Knight's Crosses were awarded after this date and must therefore be considered "illegal" hand-outs. The Oberbefehlshaber der Kriegsmarine General-Admiral Walter Warzecha, successor of General-Admiral Hans-Georg von Friedeburg, without authorization presented Georg-Wolfgang Feller the Knight's Cross on 17 June 1945.

Feller, group leader in the 36. Minensuchflottille, was awarded the Knight's Cross for clearing the eastern Baltic Sea from mines thus ensuring the safe passage of many returning German ships.