Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann der Reserve (Captain of Reserves)

Unit:

Kommandeur, II. Bataillon, Grenadier-Regiment 1221, 180. Infanterie-Division, Heer

Awarded on:

May 9th, 1945

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

“Hauptmann der Reserve Hollmann has distinguished himself as a Bataillon commander on multiple occasions since the beginning of the major enemy offensive between the Lower Rhine and Maas rivers. His exemplary steadfastness was especially notable on the 05.03.1945, when enemy forces penetrated his frontline with 24 tanks and 2 battalions. Sparing himself no quarter, he assembled his messengers and radio operators and succeeded in halting the enemy, closing the frontline gap and preventing an imminent hostile breakthrough to the high ground east of the Xanten Forest. Enemy losses on this day amounted to 5 tanks and about 120 dead.”

This account was supplemented by a further endorsement from the XXXXVII. Panzer-Korps…

“I support the recommendation for the awarding of the Knight’s Cross to the Iron Cross for this outstandingly brave Bataillon commander. His decision to defend his Bataillon command post with the last hastily assembled forces at hand prevented the enemy’s impending breakthrough.”

Unofficial award.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

1945