Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann (Captain)

Unit:

Führer III. / Gebirgs-Jäger-Regiment 136 / 2.Gebirgs-Division

Awarded on:

July 23rd, 1942

Here follows a divisional order of the day outlining the career of Hauptmann Stampfer and the deeds which led to him being awarded the Knight's Cross...

"2. Gebirgs-Division - 26.07.1942

The Führer and Supreme Commander of the Wehrmacht has awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross to Hauptmann Stampfer, Kommandeur III./Gebirgs-Jäger-Regiment 136.

"It is my great pleasure to congratulate this excellent and battle-hardened officer on behalf of the whole 2. Gebirgs-Division.

In the summer of last year Hauptmann Stampfer led his 12. Kompanie with bravery and circumspection. Despite the heavy losses sustained at the Bolischaja Liza camp, the unit was able to storm the commanding Hill 200 a few days later in a dashing attack.

After Hauptmann Stampfer took over the leadership of the III./Gebirgs-Jäger-Regiment 136 in April 1942, he was attached to Kampfgruppe Penanen with the goal of seizing a Soviet camp in the area of Luttojoki. With exemplary attacking spirit, the Bataillon captured the strongly fortified camp under the personal leadership of its commander. In the process they captured 41 battle positions/bunkers, and wiped out a company of elite Soviet troops down to the last man.

After a short rest the Bataillon was utilized again at the end of April. Acting as part of Gruppe Hofmeister, it played a key role in eliminating the 4th and 6th Russian Reindeer-Ski-Brigades.

The bestowal of the highest German war medal is a well deserved recognition of the outstanding accomplishments Hauptmann Stampfer has achieved on behalf of the German people. But it applies equally to every member of the valiant III./Gebirgs-Jäger-Regiment 136 as well.

The division is proud of its youngest Knight's Cross Holder, who is the 5th soldier in the division to be so decorated."