Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Obergefreiter (Corporal)

Unit:

Gruppenführer 3./Panzer-Aufklärungs-Abteilung "GD"

Awarded on:

October 4th, 1944

On the 22.09.1944 the Soviets attacked with 100 men against the positions of the by now severely weakened 3./Panzer-Aufklärungs-Abteilung GD. After his Zug and squad leader had fallen, Obergefreiter Maaz took over command of his Zug. He fought as an exemplary role-model for his comrades, and following his lead the Kompanie was able hold off all attacks by the Soviets. Even when the attackers were only 5 metres from his trenches, Obergefreiter Maaz kept his nerve and inspired his men to do the same. Those opposing soldiers that did manage to enter the German trenches were eliminated in close combat.

Maaz’s bravery and leadership in this battle ensured that the position held by the whole Abteilung was not rolled up from the flank by strong Soviet forces. In recognition of this he was decorated with the Knight’s Cross as one of the youngest Großdeutschland soldiers to be so honoured.