Field Marshal Keitel signs the unconditional surrender in Berlin, officially ending WWII in Europe.
Photo Details
Location: Berlin, Germany
Date: May 8, 1945, 22:43 CET (May 9, 00:43 Moscow time)
Photographer: Moore
Wilhelm Keitel Signs the Act of Unconditional Surrender
This historic photograph captures Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel, Chief of the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht (OKW), as he signs the Act of Unconditional Surrender of Nazi Germany.
The event took place in Berlin on May 8, 1945, at 22:43 Central European Time, marking the official end of the war in Europe. For the Soviet Union, the moment occurred on May 9 due to the time difference — hence the celebrated Victory Day.
The Marshal's Baton
On the table beside him lies his marshal's baton, a symbol of once-absolute military authority, now rendered meaningless by unconditional defeat.
Source
Historical press archive, photographer: Moore
Wilhelm Keitel on His Way to Sign Germany’s Surrender
Recommended reading
- German Instrument of Surrender
- May 8, 1945 signing ceremony
- End of WWII in Europe photos