Awarded for his achievements as the commander of the 6. Panzer-Division during Operation Citadel in the time period 05.-09.07.1943. The following press article, dated 18.07.1943, describes one of the most important actions that led to his receiving the Oakleaves…
“On the 08.07.1943 Generalmajor von Hünersdorff, commander of the (6.) Panzer-Division, succeeded in breaking through a heavily defended enemy anti-tank ditch position northeast of Belgorod. Exploiting his success, he brought up his and an additional Lower-Saxonian Panzer-Regiment (which was subordinated to him) and launched a bold thrust towards the northeast on his own initiative. During this armoured charge his force stormed an important village while also destroying 20 Soviet tanks and 30 heavy anti-tank guns. He was as always an inspiring example of bravado to his Panzergrenadiers during this time.”
The subordinated Panzer-Regiment referred to in the article belonged to the 19. Panzer-Division, and the village was Melichewo.
259th Award.