- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Hauptmann der Reserve (Captain of Reserves)
- Unit:
- Führer Pionier-Bataillon 209 / 11.Panzer-Division
- Awarded on:
- January 9th, 1944
On the 26.11.1943 the Soviets succeeded in breaking through the positions of Panzer-Pionier-Bataillon 209, which was located on the western bank of the Ingulez river north of Alexandrija. However Hauptmann Bödicker and his men were able to recapture their old positions with the support of a few friendly Panzers. In this battle Hauptmann Bödicker led from the very front, being among the first to reach the foremost trenches and then roll them up with a handful of his troops.
By doing this the Soviet penetration was eliminated, as was the danger of a collapse of the Division’s frontline. Heavy losses on the foe were inflicted in the process. Hauptmann Bödicker would subsequently receive the Knight’s Cross for his actions on this day.