Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Awarded in 1940. Exact date unknown.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Awarded in 1940. Exact date unknown.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberstleutnant (Lieutenant-colonel)

Unit:

Kommandeur, I. Bataillon, Infanterie-Regiment 351, 183. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

March 7th, 1942

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberst (Colonel)

Unit:

Kommandeur, Grenadier-Regiment 330, 183. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

August 22nd, 1943

The following divisional order of the day (dated 28.08.1943) describes why Elbl received the Knight’s Cross…

“… Oberst Elbl and his Regiment were consistently able to repel the many ferocious attacks launched by the Soviets during the difficult defensive fighting at the end of July. Throughout all this time enemy penetrations were crushed by brave immediate counterattacks, with a particularly notable instance of this taking place on the 23.07.1943. On this day one such penetration was unable to be immediately smashed due to heavy friendly casualties. Oberst Elbl thus personally rushed to the site with 3 Sturmgeschützen and led the ensuing counterthrust. Thanks to his brave actions and skillful leadership it was possible to throw back the enemy and once again restore the situation. Both the heroic combat achievements of Oberst Elbl and his brave Regiment as well as the commander’s own independently launched counterthrusts and command decisions were crucial for the defense of the area. The final result was that the enemy were unable to fulfill their intentions of breaking through near Tupik and rolling up the friendly main line of battle.

I give my fondest congratulations to Oberst Elbl and his Grenadier-Regiment 330 in light of this high honour. Oberst Elbl is the 6th Knight’s Cross Holder of the 183. Infanterie-Division.”

It should be noted that the Soviet penetration on the 23.07.1943 was dangerous primarily on account of it threatening a road in the rear of Elbl’s Regiment. It is also known that the counterthrust launched by Elbl on this day was conducted with the Sturmgeschüzen as well as elements of Elbl’s staff and some weak reserves.