Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Leutnant (2nd Lieutenant)

Unit:

Führer 2. Kompanie, I. Bataillon, Panzergrenadier-Regiment 66, 13. Panzer-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

December 9th, 1944

On the 24.10.1944 Kampfgruppe Gehrig launched an attack into the deep Soviet flank south of Polgar. At the time the Kampfgruppe consisted of the I./Pz.Rgt. 4, the 2./Pz.Gren.Rgt. 66 and elements of the Pz.Aufkl.Abt. 13. The thrust managed to capture the guns of a Soviet artillery battalion and a number of fully laden US lend lease trucks. In this battle Erdmann and his Panzergrenadiers cleared the opposing positions under the protection of the Panzers. In total 21 artillery pieces and 37 anti-tank guns were eliminated during this operation.

Oberleutnant Erdmann would receive the Knight’s Cross for his achievements during this battle, one in which his unit significantly contributed to victory.