Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Obergefreiter (Corporal)

Unit:

Richtschütze Panzerjäger-Abteilung 26

Awarded on:

September 14th, 1942

In the middle of August 1942 the 26. Infanterie-Division was positioned in the area around Bolchow (north of Orel). Among the men in its ranks was the anti-tank gunner Obergefreiter Mintert. During this time the Soviets launched an attempt at an armoured breakthrough, a move which brought them into contact with Obergefreiter Mintert. Mintert nonetheless resisted bitterly despite being outflanked to both the left and right and having his neighbouring Pak destroyed. Soon a circle of burning Soviet tanks surrounded his Pak, with Mintert having held his gun position bravely. In a short time he had destroyed 7 attacking tanks, after which the rest were compelled to retreat.

For this decisive contribution to the German defense (which no doubt was invaluable in preventing a Soviet breakthrough here) Mintert would be decorated with the Iron Cross First Class and later the Knight’s Cross.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)