Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Leutnant (2nd Lieutenant)

Unit:

Zugführer 2. / Panzer-Pionier-Bataillon 57 / 6. Panzer-Division

Awarded on:

December 21st, 1940

On the 19.06.1940 the 6. Panzer-Division received the mission of capturing Fortress Epinal via a surprise attack. The first part of the attack went well and managed to capture the fortifications on the western bank of the Mosel. However the defenders in the main fortifications on the eastern bank were ready for the attackers, and of six bridges leading over the river they managed to destroy four and heavily damage another. It was thus crucial for the Division to capture the last undamaged bridge over the river.

A Pionier assault troop under the command of Leutnant Danzer was dispatched to the river, however they were unable to reach the bridge itself due to the heavy enemy fire. However Danzer observed how a party of civilians were able to cross the bridge during a pause in the fighting without being fired on by either side. This gave him an idea. He put on a work coat and a hat, commandeered a driverless delivery truck and drove towards the bridge under this guise. He then jumped out of the truck and swiftly began to cut the demolition wires and throw the explosives into the river. The French eventually noticed these activities and began shooting him. A round hit Danzer in the neck, however he continued his work and continued to toss aside one mine after another.

After clearing every mine in site Danzer rushed over the bridge back to the German lines. However at the end of the bridge he was struck by another round and collapsed. A Pionier and motorcycle messenger rushed to him and brought him out of enemy firing range. Danzer would be recommended for the Knight’s Cross on the same day for this brave and decisive action, however he would not live to receive the award as he succumbed to his injuries on the next day.

Awarded posthumously.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)