Demel, Franciszek Włodzimierz "Heczka"

Date of birth:: November 19th, 1896 (Brody)
Date of death:: September 19th, 1976 (London, United Kingdom)
Nationality:: Polish

Biography

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Krzyz Niepodleglosci z Mieczami

Awarded on:: 1931

Silver Star Medal (SSM)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Pulkownik (Colonel)
Unit:: HQ, 4th Wolyńska Rifle Brigade, 5th Kresowa Rifle Division, Polish II Corps, Polish Armed Forces in the West
Awarded on:: January 23rd, 1948

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while Commanding the 4th Wolynska Brigade, Polish Army, attached to the 15th Army Group, in an encircling movement at Bologna, Italy, on 21 April 1945. To reduce a series of mutually supporting strongpoints, he led his men in several assaults across flat, heavily mined terrain, forcing the enemy to abandon one position after another, despite the fact that the attack was carried out under heavy artillery, mortar, machine-gun and small-arms fire. Colonel Demel's disregard for personal safety, his inspiring leadership, and great tactical skill contributed in large measure to the liberation of Bologna."

Department of the Army, General Orders No. 8