- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Hauptmann der Reserve (Captain of Reserves)
- Unit:
- Führer, III. Abteilung, Artillerie-Regiment 241, 161. Infanterie-Division
- Awarded on:
- October 15th, 1942
Awarded the Knight’s Cross for his actions near Rzhev in the winter of 1942/43. In this time Heitmann distinguished himself when the Soviets broke through the positions of the German infantry and directly attacked his artillery positions. Initially only with rifles, Hauptmann Heitmann and his staff managed to fend off several Soviet attacks that were conducted with strong infantry forces and supported by tanks and artillery. His steadfastness and iron will were decisive in ensuring that no ground was yielded, and through his actions a potential Soviet breakthrough towards Rzhev was prevented.