Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberleutnant der Reserve (1st Lieutenant of Reserves)

Unit:

Chef 1. / Grenadier-Regiment 355 / 214. Infanterie-Division

Awarded on:

October 16th, 1944

The following divisional order of the day, dated 22.10.1944, describes why Dorfmeister was awarded the Knight’s Cross…

“On the 16.10.1944 the Führer and Supreme Commander of the Wehrmacht awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross to Oberleutnant Dorfmeister, commander of the 1./Grenadier-Regiment 355.

Oberleutnant Dorfmeister had already distinguished himself along the Narva on several occasions through his exceptional bravery. On the 19.07.1944 the enemy attacked the entire sector of I. Bataillon (located at Smolarnia and Antonowka-Kocio, 7 km northeast of Wladimir-Wolynsk) in regimental strength following a one-hour barrage by heavy artillery, mortars, infantry guns and anti-tank guns. Despite a heroic friendly defense the enemy achieved a major penetration, made all the more dangerous by the fact that communications had simultaneously broken down.

In this challenging situation Oberleutnant Dorfmeister took over leadership of the local defences on his own initiative. He swiftly reordered the broken-up units, concentrated the fire of the available heavy units upon the point of break-in and commenced a counterthrust with his Kompanie along with whatever hastily assembled units could be found. At the head of his men he crushed the enemy resistance, put them to flight with heavy losses despite their desperate defense and once again brought the main defensive line firmly into friendly hands.

Dorfmeister’s initiative, outstanding bravery and prudence ensured that the enemy failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough towards Wladimir-Wolynsk and the only supply road of the Division. This would have led to disastrous consequences for all of us, as an enemy breakthrough to the Wladimir corridor would also have had major implications for the retreat movements of the 214. & 72. Infanterie-Divisionen (both of which were trying to reach the Bug bridge at Uscilug).

He is the first member of the Division to receive the Knight’s Cross since its deployment to the Eastern front. We are all proud of our Knight’s Cross Holder, Oberleutnant Dorfmeister, to whom I give my warmest congratulations on behalf of the whole Division.”

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)