Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Kommandeur I./Artillerie-Regiment 257

Awarded on:

September 29th, 1941

Awarded for the role his Artillerie-Abteilung played in preventing the breakout of Soviet troops from the Uman pocket on the 06.-07.08.1941 near Jemilowka. The following order of the day (dated 17.08.1941) by General von Briesen, commander of the LII. Armee-Korps, provides further insight into the circumstances and significance of this action.

“The Division is now leaving the command of the LII. Armee-Korps following a month of subordination. In this time it has totally fulfilled its duty, and has had a major share in the successes of the Korps.

I would like to particularly commend the energy of the Division, a fact which enabled it to catch up to the other Divisions despite their headstart and the particularly challenging road conditions. Once deployed in the frontline, the Division fought bravely during its bitter defense against an enemy motorized Division near Oknino. Positioned at the decisive point of the Korps, on the 06. & 07.08.1941 the Division was able to intercept strong enemy forces that had broken out of the Uman pocket through the lines of the XXXXIX. Armee-Korps, and following hard battles managed to prevent their escape and thereby reverse the crisis of this battle. Special recognition goes out to the I./Art.-Rgt. 257 under the command of Major Wiesner for its efforts during this time.

I give my special thanks to the brave Division for its proven soldierly devotion, brave actions and superb accomplishments. My best wishes accompany the Division as it moves on.”