- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Obergefreiter (Corporal)
- Unit:
- Geschützführer, 16. Kompanie, Jäger-Regiment 38, 8. Jäger-Division
- Awarded on:
- August 23rd, 1943
The Soviets launched a major assault against the 8. Jäger-Division on the 23.08.1943. After a heavy artillery preparation the Soviets attacked with tanks and infantry. Their attack failed however, with the loss of 71 tanks in the sector of the Division. Of these, Erich Wagner personally destroyed 5 with his Pak gun and played a decisive role in the German success. As a result he was awarded the Knight's Cross on the very same day.