Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Obergefreiter (Corporal)

Unit:

Gruppenführer 1./Panzergrenadier-Regiment 12

Awarded on:

October 20th, 1944

On 02.08.1944 the soldiers of the I./Panzergrenadier-Regiment 12 suddenly came under a surprise mortar barrage while in the forest. In just a few minutes the two Kompanien present suffered 30 casualties, including both Kompanie commanders, causing the rest to waver. Recognizing the gravity of the situation Obergefreiter Rickert rallied a portion of his Kompanie and led them forwards. With these soldiers he avoided the enemy barrages, shrugged off a Soviet counterattack and was thereafter able to seal off an important enemy break-in position. He then held this position with only 18 soldiers until reinforced by friendly units.

By this brave and independent action it was possible for the enemy attack in this area to be repulsed. Obergefreiter Rickert would thus be awarded the Knight’s Cross and promoted to Unteroffizier.