Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann der Reserve (Captain of Reserves)

Unit:

Chef, 12. Kompanie, III. Bataillon, Infanterie-Regiment 410, 112. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

December 9th, 1942

The following report by Unteroffizier Adler describes the actions that resulted in Selle being awarded the Knight’s Cross…

“On the 01.10.1942 Selle’s Kompanie was deployed as as reserve behind the right wing of Leopold’s Brigade. On the following day the enemy achieved a penetration through this position following an hour of artillery fire. Contact with the staff units was broken. Oberleutnant Selle launched a counterthrust at the head of his men on his own initiative. The broken-in enemy were destroyed in close combat.

After this the Russians once again brought our positions under heavy fire, their anti-tank guns shooting up our MG positions. A Stuka attack by the Luftwaffe brought relief. The enemy once again tried an attack, but were repulsed. On the next day, the 03.10.1942, it was believed that we had a respite. The MGs were salvaged from the debris. Oberleutnant Selle went from post to post, talking to his men. Then the enemy renewed their attack. Only two bunkers were available, and one of these was immediately destroyed. The Russians had approached to within 30 to 40 metres and tried to overcome the last metres with loud cries of Hurrä. Oberleutnant Selle stood on a raised position in order to guide the defensive fire. A shell splinter wounded his head. Nonetheless he fired with his machine-pistol, and when it failed, with a rifle raised to his cheek. Then they reached his bunker! ‘Come, forwards boys!’ After throwing a few hand grenades he stormed forwards and threw the enemy back. An attack was once again thrown back.

A desperate enemy thrust later on this day likewise collapsed. On the 04.10.1942 the enemy conducted a second strong attack. They succeeded in ejecting a portion of our garrison out of its position. The situation was once again critical. Oberleutnant Selle led a counterthrust with the remainder of his men despite being wounded. After tough close combat he once again succeeded in crushing the attacks. With this the hotly contested blocking position was held.”

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)