Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Gefreiter (Lance Corporal)

Unit:

Gruppenführer 2./Panzergrenadier-Regiment 5

Awarded on:

June 9th, 1944

As the 12. Panzer-Division fought to contain powerful Soviet forces crossing the Velikaya (near Nevel), Strehlau proved himself a superb soldier of the Division. On the 14.03.1944 he occupied a strategically important hilltop on his own initiative. Here he took up position with an MG along with his number 2 gunner. The Soviets also wanted to capture the hill and the result was a violent action. In the face of the heaviest of hostile fire, Strehlau and his comrade proved to be the victors of this very uneven fight, despite coming under hostile attack multiple times. Eventually they were relieved with the arrival of friendly armoured forces.

The occupation of this hilltop position proved to be of major importance in subsequent battles. Because of this, as well as the great courage and skill Strehlau displayed during the fight for possession of it, he was decorated with the Knight's Cross.