Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Leutnant (2nd Lieutenant)

Unit:

Führer, 4. Batterie, II. Abteilung, Artillerie-Regiment 114, 46. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

November 3rd, 1944

During summer 1944 the II./Artillerie-Regiment 114 and the Grenadier-Regiment 72 occupied a position near Seretul, not far from the Roman—Bacau—Focsani railway line and the Facutti railway station. The position itself was called the “Wheat Field”, and the key point of this position was Hill 501, which was in-turn dubbed the “Cypiriac”. Holding this hill was vital as it offered a wide view over the Piatra—Neamt pass road, a route which offered the German forces a possible retreat path.

On a Saturday morning (probably the 19.08.1944?) the Soviets launched a silent attack and managed to roll up the Romanian positions to both the north and south, bypassing the Cypiriac as they did so. Acting swiftly, Beschle gathered up what forces could be found in a communications trench and then went forwards towards Hill 501 while engaging in close combat. He reached the hill, and was therefore able to prevent the Soviets from occupying the hill. Skillfully laid artillery blocking fire ensured that the hotly contested hill remained in German hands.

Beschle would later receive the Knight’s Cross for his hard-fought and successful defense of Hill 501.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)