Kaup, Heinrich

Date of birth:: July 25th, 1912 (Brenkhausen, Germany)
Date of death:: April 22nd, 1999 (Brenkhausen, Germany)
Nationality:: German

Biography

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Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Obergefreiter (Corporal)
Unit:: 3./Grenadier-Regiment 184
Awarded on:: September 19th, 1943

During the defensive battles south of Orel in mid-1943, the 3./Grenadier-Regiment 184 had the task of recapturing a section of frontline that the Soviets had overrun. The counterattack, while successful, saw all of the Kompanie’s officers and NCOs in an already greatly weakened unit become casualties. Probably as a result of this the Soviets were in turn able to turn the tide with a renewed assault of their own, throwing the Kompanie out of its newly reconquered positions that had cost so much blood to regain.

In this dangerous situation, Obergefreiter Kaup realized that the only way victory was possible was if he swiftly struck back before the Soviets could consolidate their gains. He rallied what soldiers were in his vicinity and led a renewed counterthrust. Inspired by his bravery, the Germans fought like lions and were able to eject the attackers a second time in spite of their numerical superiority. Kaup then organized the Kompanie for defense and reported the victory to the Bataillon headquarters.

For this selfless and heroic act, Kaup would be decorated with the Knight’s Cross.