Dixon, Jeremy Hitler's Heroes during the Soviet Advance

Knight's Cross Generals on the Eastern Front, 3 February 1943-12 February 1944

The third volume deals with 116 German generals who were awarded the Knight's Cross during the invasion of the Soviet Union and the subsequent retreat. The recipients include two colonel generals, nineteen generals, fifty-three lieutenant generals and forty-two major generals. The surrender of the German 6th Army in Stalingrad marked an important turning point. Field Marshal Friedrich Paulus and Colonel General Walter Heitz were taken prisoner, and five generals were killed. Five posthumous Knight's Crosses were awarded to Ernst Haccius, Hans Kamecke, Karl von Lersner, Heinrich Recke and Walter Schilling. In addition, four generals received the Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves for exceptional leadership and bravery. Major Otto-Ernst Remer, who was promoted to Major General in 1945, was among the recipients of the Oak Leaves. Known for his bold leadership style, he suppressed the assassination attempt on Hitler on 20 July 1944 and was promoted to Colonel. After the war, Remer founded a controversial right-wing party, which was later banned, and settled in Spain after his imprisonment. Johannes Friessner and Carl Hilpert were the highest-ranking recipients of the Knight's Cross during this period. Friessner was awarded the Knight's Cross in 1943 and promoted to Colonel General before being dismissed by Hitler in 1944. Hilpert, who was known for leading the LIV Army Corps during the Soviet summer offensive in 1944, received the Oak Leaves personally from Hitler. This book contains detailed accounts of their achievements, awards and wartime careers, offering a comprehensive study of leadership and bravery during this crucial phase of the Second World War.