Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Obergefreiter (Corporal)

Unit:

Fernsprecher, Stab, I. Bataillon, Grenadier-Regiment 434, 131. Infanterie-Divison, Heer

Awarded on:

May 4th, 1944

During a Soviet attack in the direction of Kovel via Cerkasy on the 28.03.1944, a group of Soviet soldiers began to quickly move across some open ground. Recognizing the danger this group posed, Obergefreiter Pollak began to direct friendly artillery fire onto these soldiers. Despite the heavy Soviet fire, he managed to continue laying down fire where it was needed most. This enabled other soldiers from the 131. Infanterie-Division to begin an encirclement of this hostile group, which was unable to move far due to the heavy artillery fire. Because of Pollak’s steadfastness in this role, it was possible to surround the Soviet group and take most of it prisoner. Pollak received the Knight’s Cross in recognition of the contribution he made during this fight.

Awarded posthumously.