- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Oberleutnant der Reserve (1st Lieutenant of Reserves)
- Unit:
- Chef, 3. Batterie, Sturmgeschütz-Abteilung 201
- Awarded on:
- March 15th, 1943
Awarded for his achievements while serving with Gruppe Siebert (based around the 57. Infanterie-Division) during its battles along the southern wing of the 2. Armee in early 1943. In this time he played a major role in spearheading a breakout by several thousand German soldiers using his 4 still operational Sturmgeschütze. By the time contact was finally made with the outside many hard engagements had been fought. Grünert was wounded during this combat, and 3 of his Sturmgeschütze did not make it through. Even so, he had contributed decisively to the fighting in the area and would be recognized for his actions with the Knight’s Cross.