Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Kommandeur, II. Bataillon, Infanterie-Regiment 576, 305. Infanterie-Division

Awarded on:

January 20th, 1943

Braun’s Knight’s Cross recommendation reads as follows…

“The former Bataillon commander, Major Braun, has previously distinguished himself through his personal bravery and determined leadership during the fighting to storm the housing block that dominated all of northern Stalingrad (the so-called Acropolis), the tractor factory and the Red Barricade gun factory.

After this Major Braun took over command of Grenadier-Regiment 576 when it became necessary to seize the last enemy held territory along the Volga bank while simultaneously defending the Red Barricade factory, which the red leadership intended to recapture at any cost. In this capacity he once again distinguished himself through his exceptional bravery, inspiring leadership and decisiveness.

Major Braun did not let himself be discouraged by a failed assault on the 02.11.1942 against the fuel depot, which the Bolsheviks defended whilst committing their last reserves. Despite the furious enemy artillery and Katyusha fire he shifted his command post to a point just behind the foremost line of his Regiment. Acting on his own initiative, he reconnoitred attack possibilities from the foremost line. He then led his Regiment (now depleted to almost Kompanie strength) forwards with inspiring energy on the 11.11.1942, and he managed to fight through to the Volga with his men. Personally directing each assault unit, he and his brave Grenadiers captured the Volga bank in close combat and severed the rearward links of the desperately defending 138th and 99th rifle divisions located here. Under murderous enemy fire, he then firmly held onto the seized bank for days of defensive combat against the enemy breakthrough attempts.

The reduction of the enemy pressure against the gun factory, which was of decisive importance for the overall friendly operations, is first and foremost the achievement of this brave officer. He has led his Regiment to magnificent achievements through his determined leadership and brave personal example.”

Was simultaniously promoted to Oberstleutnant.