Maximilian von Edelsheim with His Officers

Oberstleutnant Maximilian von Edelsheim (Kommandeur Radfahr-Abteilung 1 / 1.Kavallerie-Division) with his officers in the Eastern Front, 1941. 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 would subsequently be awarded the Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes for the invaluable service he rendered in this capacity.

Source :
Jim Haley photo collection