Peter, Gerhard (Panzer-Pionier-Bataillon 16)

Date of birth:: February 12th, 1915 (Berlin-Oberschöneweide, Germany)
Date of death:: June 4th, 1998 (Lehrte/Hanover, Germany)
Nationality:: German

Biography

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Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)

(Allgemeines) Sturmabzeichen (ohne zahlen), I.Stufe

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)

Eisernes Kreuz 1. Klasse

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)

Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Oberleutnant (1st Lieutenant)
Unit:: Chef, 3. Kompanie, Panzer-Pionier-Bataillon 16, 16. Panzer-Division
Awarded on:: November 15th, 1941

During the heavy fighting around Nikolajew in the time period 13-17.08.1941, Oberleutnant Peter proved to be a most capable officer. He held the south flank of the Division against strong Soviet attacks, achieved great success in counterattacking those Soviet columns that did break through and participated in the advance of the Panzer-Regiment that resulted in the capture of this important port city.

On 30.09.1941 he led an energetic attack with an armoured train from Nowomoskowsk towards the east. Here, despite having left most of the friendly riflemen behind, he managed to occupy the Miskowo train station after a hard fight and then prevented the approach of an enemy armoured train with a timely railway demolition.

For these actions he would receive the Knight’s Cross.