This is an exquisite and historically important dagger that was presented to the family of Oberleutnant Draeger (research pending) who was the Adjutant of Aufklärungsabteilung 328, for the execution of his duties, killed on the Donetz river on 23 August 1943.  The dagger, which is 1938-1941 production by Eickhorn, was most likely the officer's personal dagger, which was returned to the family by way of Eickhorn, who executed this etch on the obverse in memorial to the fallen officer.  The dagger is in near mint condition with only the faintest of age to the obverse.  This is a very typical Eickhorn production etch, as are all of the external parts.  This piece was hand-inspected by Tom Wittmann at the MAX show 2023 and Tom would definitely write an expertise for the new owner if needed.  

It should be noted that Traeger's date of death was noted as the FINAL day of battle at Kursk, which was as most know, the largest tank battle in world history.  Fighting did in fact occur on this day at the river mentioned on the blade.  Research can definitely be done on this officer, whose unit was part of the 328th Infantry Division Valkyrie, which was after Kursk, dissolved due to heavy combat losses.

Please refer to the attached PDF regarding his location of burial in the Ukraine.  Also please note the German War Graves Commission burial card.