Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

I. Bataillon, Infanterie-Regiment 228, leichte Infanterie-Division 101, Heer

Awarded on:

May 13th, 1942

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberst (Colonel)

Unit:

Kommandeur, Jäger-Regiment 228, 101. Jäger-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

February 28th, 1943

The following wartime document describes why Busche was awarded the Knight’s Cross…
“On the 28.02.1943 the Führer awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross to Oberstleutnant Busche, leader of a Kampfgruppe.
Oberstleutnant Busche has outstandingly distinguished himself several times during the fighting for the high ground in the Caucasus along the pass road towards Tuapse through his brave leadership of both the Infanterie-Regiment 229 and Kampfgruppen. While leading a Kampfgruppe south of Krasnodor he decisively contributed to the successful defense against a strong enemy attack on the 08.02.1943.
Under his ruthless command his weak units let the enemy come against them in multiple waves while suffering heavy losses. Then, at just the right time, he personally launched a counterthrust with the sole available weak divisional reserve (a reinforced Kompanie). He made the bold decision to carry on this counterattack far beyond the German frontline and into enemy territory. Even though his own forces were quite weak the audacity of his forward thrust was so effective that the enemy forces on both flanks swiftly gave way, and the strong enemy attack completely collapsed after a few hours. Over 900 counted dead, 82 prisoners and much captured materiel were the proof of the success achieved over the few hours of heavy combat. With the deliberate and thoroughly prepared enemy breakthrough attempt against the sole firm and vital road in the area, one which would be the future route to Krasnodor, Krymskaja and Noworossijsk for four friendly divisions, was prevented.
Oberstleutnant Busche provided the main impetus for this significant victory through his self-reliant initiative on the battlefield and his outstanding bravery.”

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)