Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann (Captain)

Unit:

Führer I. / Panzergrenadier-Regiment 74

Awarded on:

September 30th, 1944

During the fighting of the 19. Panzer-Division in the Warka bridgehead, the Division launched a thrust into the assembly area of a Soviet Tank Corps near Guraczow on the 20-21.08.1944. Here 40 Soviet tanks were destroyed. A large share of this total was creditable to Kampfgruppe Meier (I./Panzergrenadier-Regiment 74, II./Panzer-Artillerie-Regiment 19 and elements of the Panzer-Regiment 27), whose commander distinguished himself in this battle and played a big part in the German tactical victory here. Meier would be decorated with the Knight’s Cross for this action.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann (Captain)

Unit:

Kommandeur 1. / Panzergrenadier-regiment 74

Awarded on:

May 9th, 1945

On the 29.01.1945, at 01:20, Hauptmann Meier led an attack with the armoured group of the 19. Panzer-Division towards Zapplau from the village of Konradswaldau following its capture by the divisional reconnaissance battalion. Despite heavy enemy resistance, Meier’s command skills proved decisive and his Kampfgruppe was able to capture the bridge at Zapplau undamaged as per orders. After this Meier continued his thrust towards the south on his own initiative, and despite the determined enemy efforts took possession of Waldvorwerk, Herrenlauersitz and Irrsingen. This armoured charge ended near Züchen, where Meier and his men able to block the enemy supply line over the Oder river.

By this action Hauptmann Meier created the groundwork for the creation of a bridgehead near Oderbeltsch, which enabled the Panzer Korps “Großdeutschland” to cross back over the Oder. He would be recommended for the Oakleaves as a result.

The recommendation was entered for processing on March 17th, 1945. It arrived at the OKH/PA/P 5 on April 12th, 1945. The recommendation was signed in support by General der Panzertruppen Gräser, Oberbefehlshaber 3. Panzerarmee on April 2nd and by Generalfeldmarschall Schörner, Oberbefehlshaber Heeresgruppe Mitte on April 8th. It is unknown if the recommendation was fullt processed into an awarding.
When the numbering was continued this woudl have been the 874th Awarding.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

July 23rd, 1940

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

October 6th, 1939

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)