Winkels, Wilhelmus Bernardus

Battle of Holland 1940

Date of birth:: August 15th, 1918 (Wierden/Overijssel, The Netherlands)
Date of death:: May 20th, 1985 (Enschede/Overijssel, The Netherlands)
Nationality:: Dutch

Biography

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Bronzen Kruis (BK)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Dienstplichtige Huzaar
Awarded on:: November 12th, 1947

"Distinctly distinguished himself through courageous conduct against the enemy by volunteering on May 13, 1940, to defend the viaduct at Rhenen, which was under heavy enemy artillery and machine gun fire.

After performing his duties as a messenger with distinction, initially by motorcycle, but then on foot when it was shot to pieces, he fearlessly held out to the last moment. Only due to a lack of ammunition and after being virtually surrounded did he withdraw when ordered to do so."

Royal decree no. 26 (2192th award)