Ritterkreuz Action of Karl-Heinz Boska

Karl-Heinz Boska (18 October 1920 - 22 October 2004) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 16 December 1943 as SS-Obersturmführer and Adjutant II.Abteilung / SS-Panzer-Regiment 2 / 2.SS-Panzer-Division "Das Reich".

Boska’s Ritterkreuz recommendation reads as follows…

“SS-Obersturmführer Boska is an outstanding leader who has mastered several difficult situations while always leading his subordinated Panzers with great prudence.

On the 9 November 1943 he and his Zug received the mission of standing by in the Schewtschenkiwka area in order to defend against enemy armoured attacks in the sector of the Grenadier-Regiment 344.

At 05:00 on the 10 November 1943 Boska drove up to and beyond the frontline near Schewtschenkiwka his 5 operational Panzer IVs. He wished to orient his commanders as to the terrain and simultaneously reconnoiter opposite Bolschaja Grab.

After Boska had driven a few hundred metres beyond the frontline he spotted an enemy infantry attack being launched from Bolschaja Grab in the direction of the eastern part of Stepanowka. Although the Russian attacking spearheads were already 200 metres before friendly lines there was no indication that the friendly infantry had spotted the enemy.

Recognizing the danger, Boska made the independent decision to attack from the march into the enemy’s right flank and thereby unhinge the totally surprised enemy. Boska’s Zug went on to almost totally destroy the enemy force located on flat fields during the course of a battle that lasted over 2 hours. The enemy left behind 380 dead and numerous heavy weapons on the battlefield (see list). The prisoners captured here provided valuable statements for the leadership.

Utilizing this success, Boska then pursued the last fleeing hostile elements back to the edge of Bolschaja Grab. Here he entered into a major firefight with 7 enemy anti-tank guns that had been brought into position in the meantime. These were also destroyed with coordinated fire, and he then engaged the newly appearing infantry. 2 of the deployed anti-tank guns were captured and brought back. Boska then pulled back from the enemy, having lost none of his own Panzers!

During the night of the 9-10 November 1943 the Russians broke through the right wing of the 75. Infanterie-Division with a tank brigade, and by the morning of the next day they stood in Ssolimonki with 16 tanks and 2 infantry companies. This attack, in conjunction with the enemy regimental-sized attack that had been beaten back by Boska, was intended to lead to the encirclement of the 75. Infanterie-Division and create the necessary conditions for an advance against Bjela Zerkoff. But the situation was instead ultimately resolved in our favour thanks to the clear, swift and independent action by Boska, who also showed outstanding bravery during his attack. His intervention prevented a consequently unavoidable enemy thrust against Bjela Zerkoff. The broken-in enemy tanks and infantry were eventually destroyed by the handful of available reserves who were now free to act in this way thanks to Boska’s successful riposte.

Successes of Boska’s operation:

63 prisoners,
380 dead,
5 anti-tank guns (7.62 cm) destroyed,
2 anti-tank guns (7.62 cm) captured,
3 anti-tank rifles destroyed,
100 rifles destroyed.”

Submitted on 4 December 1943.
Preliminary document and decoration on 24 December 1943 to Panzer AOK 4.

Source :
Adolfo Diaz photo collection
https://id.pinterest.com/pin/227361481174468329/
https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/28614/Boska-Karl-Heinz.htm

Jochen Peiper at Berghof 1940

SS-Hauptsturmführer Joachim "Jochen" Peiper shown at Hitler’s Berghof alpine headquarters along with his boss Heinrich Himmler for a visit on 29 July 1940 after the German conquest of France. Photo by Walter Frentz.

 

Two of Himmler's staff at Berghof Obersalzberg, 29 July 1940. From left to right: SS-Gruppenführer und Generalleutnant der Waffen-SS Karl Wolff (Chef des Hauptamtes Persönlicher Stab Reichsführer-SS) and SS-Hauptsturmführer Joachim "Jochen" Peiper (Adjutant und Begleitoffizier von Reichsführer-SS). The picture was taken by Walter Frentz.

From left to right: SS-Hauptsturmführer Max Wünsche (Ordonnanz-Offizier in Begleitkommando des Führers) and SS-Hauptsturmführer Joachim "Jochen" Peiper (Adjutant und Begleitoffizier von Reichsführer-SS). They are posing for Hitler's photographer, Walter Frentz, at the Berghof Obersalzberg in 29 July 1940.

 

Three SS adjutants at the terrace of Berghof Obersalzberg, 29 July 1940. From left to right: SS-Obersturmführer Hans Pfeiffer (Ordonnanz-Offizier in Begleitkommando des Führers), SS-Hauptsturmführer Joachim "Jochen" Peiper (Adjutant und Begleitoffizier von Reichsführer-SS), and SS-Hauptsturmführer Max Wünsche (Ordonnanz-Offizier in Begleitkommando des Führers). The German leader was already wished to discuss the timing for a vast campaign against Soviet Union. The picture was taken by Walter Frentz.

Source :
"Peiper's War; The Wartime Years of SS Leader Jochen Peiper 1941-44" by Danny S. Parker
https://id.pinterest.com/fanispandagou/generals-and-soldiers-ww2/

Postwar Photo of Paul Behr

A postwar photo of Ritterkreuzträger Paul Behr (9 May 1910 - 11 December 1990). He ereceived the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 28 March 1945 as Hauptmann der Reserve and Chef 13.Kompanie / III.Bataillon / Füsilier-Regiment 39 / 26.Volksgrenadier-Division. Hauptmann Behr particularly distinguished himself in the time period 23-25 January 1945 by successfully carrying out a difficult operation against superior enemy forces while fighting in the Lausdorn area (specifically around Hills 495 and 517). He would subsequently be awarded the Ritterkreuz as a result.

Source :
Dietmar Feldmann photo collection
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=4913523341994844&set=gm.928604020968371

Ritterkreuz award ceremony of Friedrich-Wilhelm Otte

Ritterkreuz award ceremony of Oberst Friedrich-Wilhelm Otte (Kommandeur Jäger-Regiment 207 / 97.Jäger-Division) which were held at Caucasus front on 13 November 1942. Awarding the medal is Generalmajor Ernst Rupp (Kommandeur 97. Jäger-Division).

Source :
ECPAD Archives (courtesy of Blanluet Christophe)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/152986901863424/?post_id=927678051060968

Ritterkreuz Action of Gottfried Geißler

Gottfried Geißler (17 October 1914 - 21 July 2006) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 21 August 1941 as Oberleutnant and Chef 3.Batterie / Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 185. On the 28 June 1941 previously, the Vorausabteilung of the 1. Infanterie-Division advanced towards Riga via Bauske. After swiftly taking the latter the advance continued, with the ultimate goal being the Daugava bridges in Riga. After reaching the city’s edge at 10:30, Oberleutnant Geißler and his Sturmgeschütze rampaged through the city and discovered a still intact pontoon bridge. He drove over to the east bank on his own initiative with a squad of flamethrower-equipped Pionieren and 3 other Sturmgeschütze, however just after this the pontoon bridge as well as the nearby railway bridge were both blown up.

Oberleutnant Geißler thus formed a small hedgehog position, and defended against constant enemy attacks for the entire day. However the Pioniere were slowly whittled down, and the Sturmgeschütze destroyed by enemy AT teams one after another. Eventually only Geißler’s vehicle was intact. After being wounded himself twice he abandoned the vehicle along with his crew. Now, as darkness set in, the survivors ran to the river and tried to reach the western bank via the destroyed railway bridge. Engaged by an MG, the last three Pioniere were killed and Oberleutnant Geißler received his third wound of the day. Only Geißler and three other men, all wounded, returned to German lines.

However through this bold deed Geißler had created the basis for the eventual capture of Riga. He would be awarded the Ritterkreuz in recognition of his actions. Vorläufiges Besitzzeugnis was also presented on 21 August 1941.

Source :
Jim Haley photo collection
https://www.facebook.com/groups/152986901863424/
https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/47917/Gei%C3%9Fler-Gottfried.htm

Ritterkreuz Actions of Günther Hoffmann-Schönborn

Günther Hoffmann-Schönborn (1 May 1905 – 4 April 1970) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes #278 on 14 May 1941 as Major and Kommandeur Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 191 "Büffel" / 5.Gebirgs-Division. The medal was awarded for his support of Gruppe Ens during the breakthrough of the Metaxas line. Despite the strong enemy defensive fire and the difficult terrain he managed to bring his Sturmgeschütze into a suitable firing position for covering the attack of Gruppe Ens. This support was invaluable for the Gruppe’s success, enabling it to breakthrough the enemy line and help trigger the collapse of the enemy front.

He received the Eichenlaub #49 for his Ritterkreuz on 31 December 1941 as Major and Kommandeur Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 191 "Büffel" / 111.Infanterie-Division. The medal was awarded for the distinguished leadership of his Abteilung during the advance to the Dnieper river, the crossing of the river and in the subsequent encirclement battle of Kiev.

His last rank is Generalmajor.

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=29879&p=2287604&hilit=G%C3%BCnther+HOFFMANN+SCH%C3%96NBORN#p2287604
https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/8807/Hoffmann-Sch%C3%B6nborn-G%C3%BCnther.htm

Ritterkreuz Action of Klaus Faulmüller

Dr. Klaus Faulmüller (21 June 1917 - 25 October 1943) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 25 June 1943 as Oberleutnant der Reserve and Führer 7.Kompanie / II.Bataillon / Gebirgsjäger-Regiment 13 / 4.Gebirgs-Division.

The following divisional order of the day describes why Faulmüller would be awarded the Ritterkreuz:

“The Führer and Supreme Commander of the Wehrmacht has awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes to Oberleutnant d.R. Faulmüller, 7./Geb.Jäg.Rgt. 13.

On the 15 May 1943, during the fighting in the Neberdshajewskaja-Krymskaja area, Oberleutnant Faulmüller stormed the heavily fortified ‘Artillery Hill’ along with his Zug. Having done this on his own initiative, he proceeded to hold the hill against strong enemy counterattacks that were supported by tanks.

Through his bold initiative and outstanding personal courage, Oberleutnant Faulmüller prevented the collapse of our attack (which was taking heavy losses) at a crucial moment. The capture of this vital position enabled the neighbouring Bataillon to make contact at the front without any more significant losses.

The enemy suffered numerous casualties. 3 enemy tanks were destroyed in close combat, and many heavy weapons were captured.

I congratulate Oberleutnant der Reserve Faulmüller on behalf of the Division for this high honour. He is the 10th Ritterkreuzträger (Knight’s Cross Holder) of the 4. Gebirgs-Division.”

The following report in “Die Gebirgstruppe” 5/78 provides further details as to this action…

“During the combat in the Neberdshajewskaja-Krymskaja area (in the Kuban bridgehead) the Kampfgruppe of Eichenlaubträger Oberst Göbel commenced a counterattack. The enemy had achieved a penetration during their last major assault that had to be cleaned up, and an important hill in particular had to be recaptured.

Although the enemy rained down coordinated fire on the attacking troops with all weapons, the Grenadiers and Gebirgsjäger were initially able to make good progress and were able to advance to a point close to the summit of the hill. However at that stage the attack threatened to bog down in the formidable defense. Losses were being incurred, the leaders of both Kompanien deployed against the hill became casualties, and the neighbouring troops on the left and right were also beginning to falter.

Oberleutnant Faulmüller, commander of the 7./Geb.-Jäg.Rgt. 13, stood in reserve with a Zug. He was to move up forwards when the hill was captured. But now the situation had totally changed. All communication links were down. No orders could reach Faulmüller, and no inquiries from him to his superiors came through.

The young officer decided to take the course of action that aligned with his own attitude and the traditions of the German Heer. He went forward into the attack with his Zug, gathered up withdrawing elements from other Kompanien along with him and stormed against the hill. Riding on a Sturmgeschütz and firing an MG against the enemy while on the move, he penetrated into the hill position at the head of his Gebirgsjäger and rolled it up in bitter close combat, destroying several bunkers along with their crews. After this had been captured the bushy terrain behind the hill that still contained numerous enemies was cleared out. As a result the hill finally came under German control. The visible results of this battle were enemy losses of 102 prisoners, 78 dead, 1 artillery piece, 18 mortars and numerous MGs and anti-tank rifles.

However the Gebirgsjäger had barely managed to set up for defense when the enemy launched a counterthrust with the support of 16 tanks. At the moment armour-piercing weapons were not yet available, and it was not long before individual enemy tanks had pushed into the rear of the defenders in order to wreak havoc. Oberleutnant Faulmüller took up a captured anti-tank rifle and fired it against the oncoming steel monsters at the closest possible range. He knew that he could not hope to penetrate the enemy tank, but by doing so he did reassure his own troops and influence the enemy tank crews. The Gebirgsjäger took heart from his example. They destroyed 3 enemy tanks in close combat and bloodily repulsed the following enemy infantry.

Through his bold initiative and outstanding personal courage, Oberleutnant Faulmüller prevented the collapse of our attack (which was taking heavy losses) at a crucial moment. The capture of this vital position enabled the neighbouring Bataillon to make contact at the front without any more significant losses.”

Source :
https://www.sammlermarkt-nord.net/shop/captain-klaus-faulmueller-with-knights-cross-p-20392.html?language=en&redirectCancelled=true
https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/30075/Faulm%C3%BCller-Klaus-Georg.htm

Ritterkreuz Action of Fritz Burkhardt

Fritz Burkhardt (22 March 1920 - 26 December 2002) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 17 April 1945 as Oberleutnant and Chef 8.Kompanie / Grenadier-Regiment 417 / 168.Infanterie-Division.

Burkhardt’s Ritterkreuz recommendation reads as follows…

“Oberleutnant Burkhardt, commander of the 4./Gren.Rgt. 417, particularly distinguished himself through outstanding bravery while serving as the acting Bataillon commander during the fighting for Sonnenberg (along the Neisse river) on the 15-16 March 1945.

On the 15 March 1945 the I./Gren.Rgt. 417 prepared itself for a counterattack in Sonnenberg. However as it did so the enemy were swiftly expanding their penetration southeast of Grottkau with strong forces, and they thrust into Sonnenberg. The Bataillon commander was wounded, and in this challenging situation Oberleutnant Burkhardt took over command of the Bataillon. Showing the highest devotion to duty, he and his men recaptured the village after bitter urban combat while destroying 3 tanks in close combat.

After this the enemy encircled the village. The security elements adjacent to the Bataillon were pushed back. In order to prevent an enemy penetration to the south, Oberleutnant Burkhardt decided to hold Sonnenberg and let himself be encircled within the village. After several company-sized attacks had been fended off on the evening of the 15 March 1945 the enemy commenced a decisive assault against Sonnenberg at 03:00 on the 16 March 1945 after a heavy artillery preparation. 9 tanks rolled into the village. A bitter battle developed in the darkness. From roofs and windows, from basements and house extensions, Oberleutnant Burkhardt and his men defended bitterly. One tank after another was destroyed with Panzerfausts. The enemy lost 6 T-34s on this night due to close combat weapons. The remaining 3 pulled back, and the attack was defeated.

During the morning hours of the same day the enemy once again tried to enter the village with 2 tanks. However both of them were knocked out in close combat. The enemy stopped attacking after that.

In the midday hours of the 16 March 1945 Oberleutnant Burkhardt fought his way through back to the 5 km distant friendly positions. He had ultimately managed to hold the village for 18 hours long against an aggressive foe and destroyed 11 tanks with his Bataillon.

By allowing himself to be encircled in Sonnenberg Oberleutnant Burkhardt succeeded in tying down strong Soviet forces. His exemplary and brave disposition had inspired his men to the highest will to resist in critical situations, and this resulted in the enemy taking heavy losses. By doing this he played a major role in preventing a strong enemy thrust into the deep open flank of the Korps and enabling a new resistance line to be built up along the road Friedland-Grüben-Neisse.”

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?p=2062580#p2062580
https://tracesofwar.com/persons/2999/Burkhardt-Fritz-WH-Grenadier.htm

Adolf Galland Checking Aircraft

Adolf Josef Ferdinand Galland (19 March 1912 – 9 February 1996) was a German Luftwaffe general and flying ace who served throughout the Second World War in Europe. He flew 705 combat missions, and fought on the Western Front and in the Defence of the Reich. On four occasions, he survived being shot down, and he was credited with 104 aerial victories, all of them against the Western Allies.

Source :
Leslie Dellovade photo collection
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10213146079310807&set=gm.566417550520355

Adolf Galland as a Generalmajor

Adolf Galland as a General der Jagdflieger with the rank of Generalmajor. General der Jagdflieger (General of Fighters)) was not a rank but a leading position within the High Command of the German Luftwaffe in Nazi Germany. The inspector was responsible for the readiness, training and tactics of the fighter force. It was not an operational command.

Source :
Tony Jablonskis photo collection
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inspector_of_Fighters
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1615270531819239&set=gm.262916667537113

Adolf Galland as a Major

Adolf Galland as a Major. He is wearing the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes #96 which he received on 29 July 1940 as Gruppenkommandeur of III.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 26 (JG 26) "Schlageter". The medal was awarded after Galland achieved 17 air victories.

Source :
Jim Haley photo collection
https://www.facebook.com/groups/152986901863424

Galland and Dickfeld at HJ Competition

Two Adolf: Generalmajor Adolf Galland (left, General der Jagdflieger) and Oberstleutnant Adolf Dickfeld (right, General für den Nachwuchs der Luftwaffe) at a HJ (Hitlerjugend) competion organized with the assistance of NSFK (Nationalsozialistisches Fliegerkorps) at Seitz, Quedlinburg, August 1943. Dickfeld is wearing the uniform of HJ-Hauptbannfuhrer.

Source :
ECPAD Archive (courtesy of Blanluet Christophe)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/152986901863424/?post_id=552051921956918

Ritterkreuz Action of Fritz Fechner

Fritz Fechner received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 6 October 1943 as Major and Kommandeur III.Bataillon / Panzer-Regiment 23 / 9.Panzer-Division. The medal was awarded for his Abeilung’s exceptional achievements in the time period 4-16 September 1943. A particular success came on the 11 September 1943. On this day Fechner led a newly assembled armoured group (comprised of the II./Pz.Rgt. 23, elements of the Pz.Rgt. 33, the II./Pz.A.R. 102, the 3./Pz.Pi.Bt. 86 and the I./Pz.Gr.Rgt. 11) out of Podubnyj, advanced through Iwanowka and Fedrowka to the north, and thereafter captured Kamenka and the Meshewaja train station while utilizing the shock effect of a friendly Stuka attack. By this action the supply road for the Soviet 23rd Tank Corps (which had broken through to the west) was blocked. In a further thrust towards Poputnyj the gap between the 6. Armee and 1. Panzer-Armee was almost closed. The Ritterkreuz recommendation was Submitted on 2 October 1943, while Preliminary document and decoration on 12 October 1943 to 1. Panzerarmee.

Source :

Jim Haley photo collection

https://www.facebook.com/groups/152986901863424/?post_id=896721340823306

https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/4234/Fechner-Fritz.htm

Ritterkreuz Action of Cay-Lorenz Baron von Brockdorff

 

 

Cay-Lorenz Baron von Brockdorff-Ahlefeldt (25 August 1923 - 11 September 1997) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 14 April 1945 as Oberleutnant and Regimentsadjutant Stab Panzer-Regiment 15 / 11.Panzer-Division “Gespenster-Division”.

The following wartime excerpt describes why Brockdorff was awarded the Ritterkreuz:

“At another location on the western from the enemy entered into the village of Kalenborn, which contained the command post of a Panzer-Regiment. At this time the regimental commander was with his soldiers in another important sector. But in the meantime the North Americans had enveloped our blocking front near Obererl, placing them in the rear of our armoured groups and cutting off contact to our Grenadiers.

Acting swiftly, the regimental adjutant Oberleutnant Baron Cay-Lorenz von Brockdorff (hailing from Berlin) took over the leadership of the units in his sector. He assembled a weak Zug from the Panzergrenadier-Regiment and attacked the enemy-occupied Minderberg from the north.

Despite the heavy enemy artillery fire he continued to lead his men through the densely forested terrain. A large number of his Panzergrenadiers were nonetheless pinned down in the strong hostile fire. He eventually stormed the Minderberg with only a few soldiers and went on to hold it for an hour against much larger enemy forces in the thick undergrowth until reinforcements arrived and relieved him. Thanks to prudent intervention of the Oberleutnant it was possible to restore contact with our armoured group. The North Americans had taken such heavy losses in this engagement that they broke off any further breakthrough attempts.”

Submitted on 14 April 1945.
Preliminary document and decoration on 19 April 1945 to Heeresgruppe G.
Bescheinigung dated 3 May 1945.

Source :

https://de.metapedia.org/wiki/Brockdorff,_Cay-Lorenz_Baron_von

https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=194011&p=1746561&hilit=cay+lorenz+von+brockdorff#p1746561

Four Fighter Aces from JG 51 "Mölders"

Four Luftwaffe fighter aces from I.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 51 (JG 51) "Mölders", who were also Ritterkreuzträger, posed together in a photo which was taken in the spring of 1942. From left to right: Oberfeldwebel Heinrich "Tubby" Höfemeier (Flugzeugführer at 1.Staffel / Jagdgeschwader 51. Ritterkreuz 5 April 1942; total 96 air victories; KIA 7 August 1943), Leutnant Erwin Fleig (Staffelkapitän 2.Staffel / Jagdgeschwader 51. Ritterkreuz 12 August 1941; total 66 air victories; taken prisoner by the Russian on 29 May 1942 after he bail-out from his plane following the dogfight against the Russian MiG 3), Hauptmann Heinz "Pritzl" Bär (Staffelkapitän 1.Staffel / Jagdgeschwader 51. Ritterkreuz 2 July 1941, Eichenlaub 14 August 1941, and Schwerter 16 February 1942; total 222 air victories; survive until the end of the war), and Hauptmann Heinrich "Gaudi" Krafft (Gruppenkommandeur I.Gruppe / Jagdgeschwader 51. Ritterkreuz 18 March 1942; total 78 air victories; KIA 14 December 1942). They all wore fliegeranzug (aviator suits), with Höfemeier and Bär wearing special fighter pilot jackets known as "Messerschmitt Jacke".

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=29879&p=2171141&hilit=fleig+b%C3%A4r#p2171141

Ritterkreuz Award Ceremony for Maximilian von Edelsheim and Otto Brakat

Ritterkreuz award ceremony for Oberstleutnant Maximilian Reichsfreiherr von Edelsheim (Kommandeur Radfahr-Abteilung 1 / 1.Kavallerie-Division) and Unteroffizier Otto Brakat (Gruppenführer in 2.Schwadron / Radfahr-Abteilung 1 / 1.Kavallerie-Division) which were held in the end of July / early August 1941 in the Eastern Front during Unternehmen Barbarossa. Edelsheim received the announcement on 30 July 1941, while Brakat on 27 July 1941. Generalmajor Kurt Feld (Kommandeur 1. Kavallerie-Division) gives the award.

At the start of Operation Barbarossa Oberstleutnant Edelsheim commanded the Vorausabteilung of the 1. Kavallerie-Division. Its initial orders were to march through Hwoznice, Maloriyta, Mekrany and Dywin. Along the way it was to capture any important bridges and break through any enemy forces encountered. Despite the tough enemy resistance that often outnumbered the Vorausabteilung itself, Edelsheim and his men were able to fight their way through the Soviet forces and clear the way for the rest of the Division. The Division was ultimately able to reach the area south of Sluck as ordered and fulfill its mission of providing flank protection for the XXIV. Armee-Korps. Oberstleutnant Edelsheim and Unteroffizier Brakat would subsequently be awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes for the invaluable service they rendered in this capacity.

Source :
Jim Haley and Ian Jewison photo collection
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2998356756944635&set=pcb.896743780821062&type=3&size=2048%2C1229
https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/29895/Edelsheim-Reichsfreiherr-von-Maximilian.htm

Ritterkreuz Award Ceremony of Konrad Zeller and Bernd Schäzle

Soldiers from Grenadier-Regiment 380 (part of 215. Infanterie-Division) were very happy when two of their comrades, Hauptmann d.R. Konrad Zeller (right) and Leutnant d.R. Bernd Schäzle, were awarded the Ritterkreuz on the same occasion, given by Generalleutnant Bruno Frankewitz (Kommandeur 215. Infanterie-Division). Zeller received the medal on 5 January 1944 as Hauptmann der Reserve and Kommandeur I.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 380 (he would also received the Eichenlaub for his Ritterkreuz on 9 June 1944), while Schäzle received the medal on 3 January 1944 as Leutnant der Reserve and Zugführer in 11.Kompanie / III.Bataillon / Grenadier-Regiment 380.

Source :
https://beeldbankwo2.nl/nl/beelden/?mode=gallery&q=ritterkreuz&page=1&record=9dd01118-025a-11e7-904b-d89d6717b464&reverse=0&view=horizontal
http://www.historicalwarmilitariaforum.com/topic/8320-ritterkreuz-award-ceremonies-of-the-wehrmacht/?page=18&tab=comments#comment-57392

Panzergraf in His Command Tank

Oberst der Reserve Hyazinth Graf Strachwitz von Groß-Zauche und Camminetz (Kommandeur Panzer-Regiment "Großdeutschland" / Infanterie-Division "Großdeutschland") on the turret of his command vehicle, a Panzerbefehlswagen III Ausf.K "01" medium tank. This photo was taken in March 1943 during the opening of the Third Battle of Kharkov. The Panzerbefehlswagen III Ausf.K itself is a commando variant of the Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf.J, with its main weapon a 50mm (99 rounds) KwK 39 L / 60 gun. At least 50 tanks of the K model were produced by the German manufacturers, with a Fahrgestellnummer numbering from 70201 to 70250.

Source :
https://alifrafikkhan.blogspot.com/2020/08/foto-hyazinth-graf-strachwitz-von-gro.html

Karteikarte of General der Infanterie Erich Abraham

Source:
National Archives (NARA) - T78 R883 roll

Keitel Göring Dönitz Himmler Bormann

High ranking Nazi officials in conversation at Platterhof Hotel, Obersalzberg. They are waiting for Hitler to come. From left to right: Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Keitel (Chef Oberkommando der Wehrmacht), Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring (Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe), Großadmiral Karl Dönitz (Oberbefehlshaber der Kriegsmarine), Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler (Chef der SS und Deutschen Polizei), and Reichsleiter Martin Bormann (Leiter Parteikanzlei der NSDAP und Privatsekretär Führer und Reichskanzler). The picture was taken in May 1944 by Heinrich Hoffmann.

Source :
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2838528286414648&set=gm.1517702435081841&type=3&theater&ifg=1

StuG Ace Hugo Primozic in Color

Hugo Primozic (16 February 1914 – 18 March 1996) began his career in the Sturmartillerie at the end of June 1942 as a Zugführer (platoon leader) in the newly-formed Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 667. This battalion was deployed as part of Heeresgruppe Mitte, and like other assault gun units, was used primarily for supporting infantry attacks in important sectors as well as providing invaluable anti-tank support in defense. It was in this latter role that the Battalion would excel in, and it would need this skill, as it was soon moved to the German Rzhev salient.

This bulge in the front, which was the closest German frontline to Moscow, had been attacked continuously during the course of 1942 and consequently the assault guns of StuG Battalion 667 were badly needed. And it was here that Primozic would begin to make a name for himself, destroying many Russian tanks.

On 15 September 1942 the Russians launched a heavy tank and infantry assault in the area of the battalion. Hugo Primozic and two other assault guns drove forward to engage the attacking enemy. The battle was fierce, with Primozic and his two wingmen repositioning constantly to avoid being destroyed themselves. However the Russian attack was defeated, and Primozic’s StuG alone destroyed 24 tanks on that day. He was awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 19 September 1942 for this action, as a Wachtmeister and Zugführer in II.Zug / 2.Batterie / Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 667.

The Russian attacks would not stop here. Their greatest assault yet on the Rzhev salient began on 24 November, Operation Mars. Once again the German assault gun battalions were employed to break up the Russian armoured attacks. And Primozic once again played a key part in the defense, destroying seven tanks in a single day and raising his total to 60 tanks destroyed by the end of December. On 25 January 1943 he received the Eichenlaub to his Ritterkreuz in recognition of his achievements, as the first NCO in the Wehrmacht to be so decorated! And his entire crew was awarded the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold.

Following this he was promoted to Leutnant and, as was often the case among distinguished soldiers, was reassigned to a training unit where he spent the remainder of the war. In the course of his career he was credited with destroying 68 tanks, and all within a time span of just five months!

Source :
https://www.bonanza.com/items/like/473581935/Hugo-Primozic-Oakleaf-winner-signed-photo-Superb-1st-NCO-to-win-the-KC-
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2499334.m570.l1313&_nkw=hugo+primozic&_sacat=36048
http://www.historicalwarmilitariaforum.com/search/?q=primozic&type=forums_topic&item=6937

Karl Kochendörfer in Croatia 1943

A picture postcard of German soldiers conferring in a forest in Croatia, 1943. It is one of a series of photographs taken by the 7. SS-Freiwilligen-Gebirgs-Division "Prinz Eugen" in Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro from 1942 to 1944, after the German invasion of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. The photographs are believed to have been captioned by the commanding office of the Waffen-SS, and had been in the possession of Friedrich Wilhem Krueger, who served with the division from November 1943 until April 1944. The Ritterkreuzträger (Knight's Cross recipient) 2nd from left is Karl Kochendörfer. He received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 18 September 1942 as Unteroffizier and Geschützführer in 3.Kompanie / Schnelle Abteilung 296 / 296.Infanterie-Division.

Source :
https://collections.ushmm.org/search/catalog/pa1159614
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?p=2074911#p2074911

Erwin Rommel at Kriegsschule Potsdam

From left to right: Oberstleutnant Johannes Frießner (Lehrgruppenkommandeur der Lehrgruppe B an der Kriegsschule Potsdam), Oberst Wilhelm Wetzel (Kommandeur Kriegsschule Potsdam), and Oberstleutnant Erwin Rommel (Lehrgruppenkommandeur der Lehrgruppe A an der Kriegsschule Potsdam). There is no description of when and where this photo was taken, but most likely it was in the summer of 1937 when the three men were both serving at the Kriegsschule Potsdam. During his tenure at the German Army's most important war school, Rommel took the time to wrote the book "Infanterie Greift an" (Infantry Attack), which were later being used as a handbook on the training of the foot soldiers in many countries. In 1936 Rommel was served temporarily as Hitler's bodyguard at the Nürnberg Reichsparteitag. The Führer was so impressed by the skills of the talented young officer that he chose Rommel to be the commander of his headquarters and personal bodyguard unit for the period of 1938-1940. The three person depicted in this picture were latter awarded the prestigious Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, with Rommel receive the highest grade: Brillanten.

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?p=2282081#p2282081

Hermann Göring at Wehrmacht Exhibition

 This photo was taken on 18 November 1940, and it shows Nazi and Wehrmacht officials as guests at the Wehrmacht exhibition entitled "Der Sieg im Westen" (Victory in the West), which were held at Heldenplatz, Vienna, Ostmark (Austria). This exhibition features a series of propaganda relating to the resounding victories of German troops in the invasion of France and the Lower Countries a few months earlier. The identification of the persons pictured here are, front row from left to right: Hugo Jury (Gauleiter Reichsgau Niederdonau und Reichsstatthalter Niederösterreich), Baldur von Schirach (Gauleiter und Reichsstatthalter Reichsgau Wien), Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring (Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe), and Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm List (Oberbefehlshaber 12. Armee). Some additional identification: in the back row between Jury and Schirach is Character als Generalmajor Edmund Glaise-Horstenau (General z. B.V. beim Oberkommando der Wehrmacht); whose head blocked by Göring is SS-Gruppenführer Dr.jur. Ernst Kaltenbrunner (Höherer SS- und Polizeiführer Donau); between Göring and List is General der Kavallerie Eberhard von Mackensen (Chef des Generalstabes 12. Armee); and at the far right behind List is Generalleutnant Hans Graf von Sponeck (Kommandeur 22. Luftlande-Infanterie-Division).

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?p=1385037#p1385037
https://wehrmachtss.blogspot.com/2020/08/pameran-der-sieg-im-westen-di-wina.html

Generalmajor Richard-Heinrich von Reuss

Richard-Heinrich von Reuss (23 November 1896 - 22 December 1942) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 24 January 1943 as Generalmajor and Kommandeur 62. Infanterie-Division. He was killed near Nischni Astachow/Rajon Kaschary/Oblast Rostow (russ. Нижний Астахов), a village which lies approximately at 49°09'26.4"N 41°22'44.6"E, during the Battle of Stalingrad. In the afternoon of December 22nd, 1942, a Soviet tank attack was breaking through the German defences at Ponomarev. Richard-Heinrich von Reuss rushed by kubelwagen towards the front. In doing this, between Zwetschnikov and Prokovskij, he was mortally injured by a bullet.

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=191854&hilit=richard+heinrich+von+Reuss

Klaus Uebe and Georg Tyroller

From left to right: Oberst im Generalstab Klaus Uebe (Chef des Generalstabes Luftwaffenkommando Don) and Oberstleutnant Georg Tyroller (Kommandeur leichte Flak-Abteilung 84). The picture was taken in the end of 1942 or early 1943. Both were Ritterkreuzträger (Knight's Cross recipients): Uebe received the Ritterkreuz on 9 June 1944 as Generalmajor and Chef des Generalstabes Luftflotte 2, while Tyroller received the same medal on 23 December 1942 as Oberstleutnant and Kommandeur leichte Flak-Abteilung 84 (motorisiert) / Führer Kampfgruppe Tyroller (Flugplatz Kantemirovka-Süd).

Source :
https://www.ebay.com/itm/203059128893
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?p=2283421#p2283421

Oberst Alexander von Pfuhlstein

Alexander von Pfuhlstein (17 December 1899 - 20 December 1976) received the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes on 17 August 1942 as Oberst and Kommandeur Infanterie-Regiment 154 / 58.Infanterie-Division. He ended the war as a Generalmajor. His character is intransparent. He was disliked by the officers of his regiment and also by the other generals. General der Infanterie Kurt Brennecke said in may 1944, that von Pfuhlstein had a difficult charakter. General der Artillerie Helmuth Weidling, at that time Kommandierender General XXXXVI. Panzerkorps, disqualified and dismissed him in july 1944. The Gestapo suspected him to be a mate of those officers who made the 20.july-plot (for he was from 31.1.1943 until 10.4.44 in OKW - Amt Ausland/Abwehr [commander of special unit "Brandenburg"]). In the Gestapo-jail he acused Admiral Canaris and Generalmajor Hans Oster: they where in 1945 hanged. Von Pfuhlstein was after some time in fort Küstrin a free man. In that city he tried to join the Waffen-SS, but they disliked him too!

Source :
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?t=44498
https://forum.axishistory.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=29879&p=1922697&hilit=pfuhlstein#p1922697

Hans von Salmuth Inspecting German Troops

This picture is a part of Akira Takiguchi's private photo collection and it shows Generaloberst Hans von Salmuth (center, Oberbefehlshaber 15. Armee) inspecting a German soldiers from 49. Infanterie-Divisions around the coast of Boulogne, France, in 1944 (shortly before Allied troops landed in Normandy). Standing to the far left is General der Artillerie Johann Sinnhuber (Kommandierender General LXXXII. Armeekorps), while at the far right is Generalleutnant Sigfrid Macholz (Kommandeur 49. Infanterie-Division). From its formation in February 1944 to May 1944, 49. Infanterie-Division (Macholz) were under the command of LXXXII. Armeekorps (Sinnhuber), which itself is a part of 15. Armee (Salmuth). The division operated around Boulogne, France, before withdrawing to Paris in August 1944 and retreating again to Aachen one month later. The three generals depicted in this picture are themselves Ritterkreuzträger (recipients of Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes): Salmuth received it on 19 July 1940, Sinnhuber on 5 July 1941, and Macholz on 16 October 1944.

Source :
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10218313815990262&set=p.10218313815990262&type=1&theater

Eichenlaub Action of Franz Bäke

Major der Reserve Dr.med.dent. Franz Bäke in front of a Panzerkampfwagen III. He is wearing the Eichenlaub #262 zum Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes, which he received on 1 August 1943 as Kommandeur II.Abteilung / Panzer-Regiment 11 / 6.Panzer-Division. The following wartime excerpt describes why Bäke was awarded the Eichenlaub: “On the 11 July 1943 the reinforced Panzer-Regiment 11 reached the village of Kasatschja, which was located northeast of Belgorod at a point 12 km before the Donez river. Bäke persuaded his regimental commander to go against the divisional order by capturing the village of Rschawez by night and creating a bridgehead over the Sswernyi Donez. During the following night Bäke’s Vorausabteilung (II./Panzer-Regiment 11 and the II.(SPW)/Panzergrenadier-Regiment 114) thrust past enemy anti-tank gun positions before finding itself side by side with a column of 20 T-34s. Then 6 T-34s began to surround Bäke’s command Panzer, which was only armed with a wooden gun as camouflage. Bäke and his Ordonnanzoffizier, Leutnant Zobel, left the command Panzer and eliminated 4 T-34s with magnetic anti-tank grenades. The charges placed by the Major on the 5th and 6th tanks did not explode. Bäke clambered onto an approaching Panzer sent to support them and directed it to destroy both of these enemy tanks. The partially destroyed bridge near Rschawez was taken.” The recommendation was Submitted on 27 July 1943.

Source :
ECPAD Archives (courtesy of Blanluet Christophe)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/152986901863424/?ref=search
https://www.tracesofwar.com/persons/28188/B%C3%A4ke-Franz.htm