KAHLER Hans-Joachim Oberstleutnant der Reserve Kahler, Hans-Joachim *March 21st, 1908 (Morhange/Mörchingen, France) +January 14th, 2000 (Hamburg, Germany) Knights Cross: April 14th, 1943 As: Major Kommandeur, Kradschützen-Bataillon 34, 4. Panzer-Division On the 04.03.1943 Major Kahler launched an attack on his own initiative that succeeded in taking Shurawka, a prize that yielded two important bridges and a key railway embankment. Through this action the railway line Sseredina—Buda was reopened, which in turn enabled the necessary supplies to be procured for the later German attack towards Ssewsk. Major Kahler would receive the Knight’s Cross for his role in laying the groundwork for this operation. Oakleaves: December 17th, 1943 As: Oberstleutnant der Reserve Kommandeur, Panzergrenadier-Regiment 5, 12. Panzer-Division On the 20.09.1943 the Soviets broke into a key section of German frontline near Towstoles, capturing the village in the process. Oberstleutnant Kahler took his Kampfgruppe (Kampfbataillon 5, I.(gep)/Panzergrenadier-Regiment 304 and all operational Panzers) and launched a counterattack. This succeeded in recapturing Towstoles and rolling up the whole flank of the Soviet force that had broken through here. By this action the Soviet attempt to interdict the road Tschernigow—Repki—Gomel was defeated. This victory was made all the more important by the fact that, had the Soviets succeeded in their aim, the German divisions would have been forced into nearly impassable swampy terrain while still east of the Dnieper, resulting in the loss of much equipment if not entire formations. Oberstleutnant Kahler received the Oakleaves for ensuring this did not become reality. 355th Award. Postwar signed photo Price: $40.00 Please contact us before ordering to confirm availability and shipping costs. Buy now with your credit card other ways to buy