Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Leutnant (2nd Lieutenant)

Unit:

Führer Pionier-Kompanie / Jäger-Regiment 83

Awarded on:

September 2nd, 1944

On the morning of the 29.07.1944 the Soviets launched a major attack along the whole sector of the 28. Jäger-Division. The German munition shortage at this time was critical, and their artillery were unable to provide effective blocking fire. As such the Soviets were able to achieve several penetrations which the defenders could only hope to contain.

Particularly bitter fighting took place at Hill 151.5, located west of Starosielce on the right wing of Jäger-Regiment 83. Here the Soviets broke through on both sides of the regimental Pionier-Kompanie led by Leutnant Leuschner, surrounding the hill as they did so. However Leuschner and his men fought bitterly for control of the hill and ensured the Soviets could not advance past this point.

After Sturmgeschütze were able to reinforce the defenders on the hill, Leuschner resolved to use his increased combat power to best effect. Rather than merely defend the hill, Leuschner launched a counterattack with his men in order to resolve the dangerous situation along the whole right wing of the Regiment. With his men he was able to restore contact with the main German line, although he was himself wounded in the process. He nonetheless stayed with his troops until the arrival of further reinforcements and the final stabilizing of the situation. He would be decorated with the Knight’s Cross for his performance during this battle.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)