What is iron cross with oak leaves swords and diamonds?

The Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds is the highest military decoration awarded by the German Government. The Iron Cross was established in 1813, during the Napoleonic Wars, to recognize acts of valor by German soldiers. The decoration became famous during World War I, when it was awarded for bravery in battle. During World War II, the Iron Cross was awarded to both Germans and non-Germans, including Soviet soldiers who were given the Iron Cross for fighting against the Nazis.

The Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds is a special version of the Iron Cross that was created in 1941. It was awarded only 27 times during World War II, making it one of the rarest military decorations in the world. The decoration is awarded to soldiers who have performed extraordinary acts of valor in the face of great danger. The Oak Leaves signify bravery, the Swords indicate leadership, and the Diamonds represent the ultimate sacrifice.

The first recipient of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds was Luftwaffe pilot Hans-Ulrich Rudel, who was awarded the decoration in 1945. Other notable recipients include Erich Hartmann, the most successful fighter ace in history, and Hans Joachim Marseille, a fighter pilot who was known as the "Star of Africa". Despite its association with the Nazi regime, the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds remains a highly respected military decoration today, and is often used as a symbol of German military valor and courage.