Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann (Captain)

Unit:

Kommandeur, I. Bataillon, Infanterie-Regiment 204, 97. leichte Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

January 6th, 1942

Here follows an excerpt from Buchler’s Knight’s Cross recommendation that describes why he received the high award…

“During a challenging night attack on the 08./09.12.1941 Hauptmann Buchler managed to eject overwhelming Russian forces (supported by tanks) that had penetrated into the frontline and rear of the Regiment southwest of Kalinowo. Showing great personal boldness, he pushed them back northwards, turned towards the east and south on his own initiative, cleared a ravine on the flank of the broken-through frontline of Russian forces and restored the main battle line anew. Through this boldly led night attack Hauptmann Buchler prevented those Russian forces already in the rear of friendly territory from rolling up the frontline on the left flank of his Regiment. In doing so he had a decisive share in the defense against strong Russian forces east of Bachmut. He died on the morning of the 10.12.1941.”

posthumously awarded