Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Hauptmann (Captain)

Unit:

Führer III./Infanterie-Regiment 50

Awarded on:

October 9th, 1942

At 02:00 on the 02.09.1942 the III./Infanterie-Regiment 50 commenced its attack across the Terek river. Commanded by Hauptmann Lyhme, its mission was to secure a bridgehead on the river’s southern bank, south of Mosdok. Swift progress was made at the start of the attack, and it was not long before the entire Bataillon was across. Over the course of the day, under Lyhme’s skillful leadership, a bridgehead was created and expanded. Additional German units were soon ferried across, and by midday all three Bataillone of the Infanterie-Regiment 50 were across in addition to 7 light infantry guns, 6 Pak and the III./I.R. 117.

These combined forces were able to withstand the fierce Soviet counterattacks that were launched on the same day, which had heavy support from both artillery and aircraft. By the end of the day a firm bridgehead had been established with a breadth and depth of 1500 metres. Hauptmann Lyhme was subsequently awarded the Knight’s Cross for his masterful execution of such an important operation.