Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Obergefreiter (Corporal)

Unit:

Kompaniemelder, 2. Kompanie, I. Bataillon, Grenadier-Regiment 460

Awarded on:

November 12th, 1943

On the 03.10.1943 the Soviets achieved a penetration in the sector of the 2./Grenadier-Regiment 460 (located near Teploje). At this time Obergefreiter Foldenauer was the leader of the Kompanie reserve, and he immediately launched a counterthrust with this unit. All while personally firing with an MG, Foldenauer and his men eliminated all Soviet troops they encountered.

Shortly afterwards another penetration was achieved in the same area, and so Foldenauer rushed to this position also. Since a rolling up of the attacking force had to be conducted immediately for any chance of success, Foldenauer created a Kampfgruppe on his own initiative that consisted of a mortar crew and the garrison of a Pak strongpoint. With these men he attacked with such skill and determination that the Soviets were pushed back, however it proved impossible to completely destroy them. Thus, Foldenauer hauled up a light mortar across a coverless piece of terrain. Using this, as well as hand grenades from his small group, it was possible to gradually attrite the remaining Soviet troops. After two hours of close combat the Soviets finally evacuated the trenches whilst leaving behind 30 dead and wounded soldiers.

This success by Obergefreiter Foldenauer was of decisive importance for the Regiment, and he was thusly awarded the Knight’s Cross.