Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberleutnant

Unit:

1./Pionier-Bataillon 24

Awarded on:

February 3rd, 1943

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberleutnant (1st Lieutenant)

Unit:

Führer 1./Pionier-Bataillon 24

Awarded on:

April 18th, 1943

Following heavy artillery fire from all calibers the Soviets attacked the sector of the 24. Inf.Div. between Krassnyj Bor and Ssablino on 19.03.1943. The Soviets were able to succeed in breaking into the German defense to a depth of 800 metres and a width of 1000 metres, however were stopped just short of the German command posts. After throwing in the reserves the Germans were able to push the Soviets back some 300 metres, but failed to eject them completely. Thereafter followed bitter back and forth battles for the next several days, made all the more difficult by the thick forests.

On 29.03.1943 the Soviets decided to punch through once and for all and attacked with fresh forces, creating a critical situation by breaking-in at the boundary between the Division and the left neighbour. The Division threw in its last reserve, the Pionier-Kompanie of Leutnant Scheffold, to remedy the situation. Scheffold and his troops fought bitterly and were able to stabilize the frontline, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy. As a result the Soviets abated their attacks the next day. For preventing an imminent enemy breakthrough during this battle Scheffold would receive the Knight’s Cross.