Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann der Reserve (Captain of Reserves)

Unit:

Kommandeur, II. Bataillon, Schützen-Regiment 111, 11. Panzer-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

February 2nd, 1942

The following report describes why Florin was awarded the Knight’s Cross…

“Gerhard Florin joined the First World War as a volunteer. In the current war he has distinguished himself in the campaigns against Poland, France and Serbia. Since June 1941 he has served as a Hauptmann and Bataillon commander in the East. At the end of July he undertook a daring attack on his own initiative against a far superior enemy force that were trying to break through the German defenses. His suddenly executed strike surprised the enemy, and they sustained heavy losses. In a rapid follow-up thrust Florin pushed back the fleeing enemy against the positions of a German Schützen Bataillon. 6 artillery pieces, plentiful military equipment and 500 prisoners were the booty of this operation. Thanks to him an important crossroads remained in German hands, and the Division was relieved of a threatening situation. The continued pursuit of the Soviets led to the creation of the pocket at Uman. On the front before Moscow a thrust by Florin enabled the capture of a village as well as a breakthrough of the enemy’s defensive front by the Division.”

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Kommandeur, II. Bataillon, Panzergrenadier-Regiment 111, 11. Panzer-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

August 14th, 1942

1144th Award.