Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Oberfeldwebel (Warrant Officer)

Unit:

Zugführer 11./Grenadier-Regiment 1 "HG"

Awarded on:

June 21st, 1943

The following newspaper excerpt describes why Scheid received the Knight’s Cross…

“Oberfeldwebel Johannes Scheid… has proven himself to be an outstandingly brave and decisive soldier during the heavy fighting in Tunisia. With only a handful of men he was able to prevent a strong hostile breakthrough attempt (backed by powerful tank and infantry forces) and force the enemy to fall back.”

This action took place on the 22.04.1943, when the Allies attempted to capture Hill 304 (near Bou Arada) during the final battles for Tunisia. In a battle resulting in heavy losses on both sides, the German defenders were able to hold their ground. After the commander of the 11./Regiment 1 “HG” fell in battle, Oberfeldwebel Scheid took over the leadership of the Kompanie and continued to defend the hill until the Allies finally halted their attacks. In doing so Scheid made a major contribution to the German defense (as the way to Tunis would have been opened if the defensive line was penetrated), and so was recognized appropriately.