German Forces

Martin Hrustak - Infantry NCO with Oakleaves

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Oberfeldwebel MARTIN HRUSTAK (born October 17, 1913 at Tschechen/Sudetenland), platoon leader in 7th Company/Grenadier-Regiment 162 of the 61st (East Prussian) Infanterie-Division. Knight's Cross awarded December 11, 1943; Oakleaves awarded May 14, 1944. Martin Hrustak (nicknamed "Der Kleine" -the small one- since he was of comparatively small size) died on August 18, 1944 in a military hospital at Riga/Latvia of the wounds he received during a successful counter attack on a Soviet AT position the same day. The photo shows Hrustak on the day of the Knight's Cross bestowal together with his company commander 2nd Lt. Frömmgen (KIA). Further decorations of Martin Hrustak: Iron Cross 2nd and 1st Class, Eastern Front Medal, Wounded Badge in Silver, Close Combat Clasp in Bronze, Infantry Assault Badge.