Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

March 17th, 1942

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

May 5th, 1943

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Feldwebel der Reserve

Unit:

Zugdführer, 2. Kompanie, I. Abteilung, Panzer-Regiment 102, Führer-Begleit-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

February 28th, 1945

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Feldwebel der Reserve

Unit:

Zugdführer 2. Kompanie, I. Abteilung, Führer-Panzer-Regiment 1, Führer-Begleit-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

April 30th, 1945

Fischer’s Knight’s Cross recommendation reads as follows…

“Feldwebel Fischer has proven himself as an outstanding Panzer commander over the course of 105 engagements, fought during all operations of the Abteilung since December 1941 in the north, middle and south sector of the Eastern front, in Courland, the Ardennes offensive of 1944, in Pomerania and Silesia. In this time, alongside numerous anti-tank guns, he has destroyed a total of 73 enemy tanks.

Through his exemplary bravery he succeeded in destroying 21 enemy tanks in the area south of Leobschütz during the time period 25.03.-01.04.1945. By this he has heavily contributed to the great defensive success of the Regiment in the battle between Jägerndorf and Troppau.

On the 29.03.1945 Feldwebel Fischer’s Zug was engaged in heavy combat with 5 enemy tanks that were attacking from Gut Poßnitz towards the south. As he couldn’t achieve anything from the front, he decided to change position. Despite strong defensive fire he took the enemy in the flank and destroyed all 5 enemy tanks (including a heavy assault gun).

On the morning of the 30.03.1945, a time by which all other vehicles of his Zug had fallen out, he stood completely alone and without infantry support in a frontline gap south of Poßnitz. Ruthlessly applying himself to the fighting, he destroyed 6 out of 11 attacking enemy tanks and forced the remainder to retreat. Thus through his boldness and devotion to duty he prevented an enemy breakthrough towards Branitz.

Through his readiness for combat and resilience in the face of crisis, Feldwebel Fischer is a shining example for all members of the Abteilung. He is particularly worthy of the award of the Knight’s Cross to the Iron Cross.”

Submitted on 16th April 1945.