Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

August 15th, 1941

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

October 4th, 1941

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

II. Bataillon, Infanterie-Regiment 430, 129. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

July 20th, 1942

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Kommandeur, Grenadier-Regiment 430, 129. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

April 9th, 1943

On the 26.11.1942 the Soviets penetrated the German frontline around Rzhev near Osuga. Major Wesche was sent to deal with this threat, and in a sharp counterattack Wesche and his Grenadiers were able to restore the old German defence line. For this success he was awarded the Knight's Cross.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberst (Colonel)

Unit:

Kommandeur, Grenadier-Regiment 427, 129. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

August 6th, 1944

On the 26.06.1944 the Ptitsch bridges (Hoßbach bridges) near Karpitovka were blocked off by the Soviets, thus cutting off the retreat route of several Axis divisions. Oberst Wesche, recognizing the situation, took over all available forces on the left wing of his Division and defeated the Soviet blocking force. With the troops under his command that had broken through, he set up a new defensive front to the west and from there was able to hinder further Soviet moves. In this fighting Oberst Wesche was killed the next day on the 27.06.1944, however he would be recognized for his efforts here with the Oakleaves.

541st award

Period:

First World War (1914-1918)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)