Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

March 16th, 1942

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

July 15th, 1942

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

December 31st, 1943

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

August 15th, 1944

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Unteroffizier der Reserve (Corporal of Reserves)

Unit:

Vorgeschobener Beobachter, 12. Batterie, IV. Abteilung, Artillerie-Regiment 290, 290. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

April 28th, 1945

Niedzwitzki’s Knight’s Cross recommendation reads as follows…

“On the 20.02.1945 Unteroffizier Niedzwitzki (forward observer of the Batterie) distinguished himself through his outstanding bravery whilst engaged in the fierce, day-long combat around Strongpoint Berzini. Although the Bolsheviks penetrated deep into the friendly defensive system along both sides of Berzini, Niedzwitzki remained at his observation post. From here he directed fire from all Batterien of the Artillerie-Regiment onto the attacking foe, and he beat back repeated attacks by the enemy in close combat together with the garrison of his observation post.

Whilst lying alongside his observation post he repeatedly shot into the attacking enemy with his machine-pistol, and he eliminated several Bolsheviks in the immediate vicinity of his observation post via well-aimed fire. His radio operators and messenger were inspired to offer up similar courage after witnessing his exemplary devotion to duty. Therefore, this artillery observation post simultaneously assumed the mantle of a grimly defended strongpoint throughout the course of the day. Niedzwitzki’s brave stand here tied down strong Bolshevik forces, and ultimately enabled the creation of a new defensive line in the rear of the main battle zone.

Although the enemy’s overwhelming forces continued to press their attacks into the evening, they were repeatedly smashed to pieces by Niedzwitzki’s well-directed fire. This enabled the friendly infantry to withdraw to the new defensive line. Then, although he was badly wounded himself, Niedzwitzki ordered fire to be brought down on his own position before breaking through to friendly positions with the last of his strength.”