Finnish Forces

Major Häkkinen, knight #46

Major Toivo Häkkinen (1904-1944) Knight of the Mannerheim Cross #46. Häkkinen commanded JP 2 (Jäger Battalion 2) on Karelian Isthmus in the Winter War and later during the Continuation War he first commanded JP 4 and then again JP 2. His unit captured the city of Aunus, was the first one to reach Svir river and participated in capture of Petroskoi, Karhumäki and Poventsa. He was awarded the Mannerheim Cross on January 14, 1942. Other decorations: #Cross of Liberty 2nd class with oak leafs and swords #Cross of Liberty 3rd class with swords #Cross of Liberty 4th class with swords #Iron Cross 2nd class Promotions: #Reservivänrikki (reservist 2nd lieutenant) - September 6, 1927 #vänrikki (2nd lieutenant) - May 16, 1929 #luutnantti (1st lieutenant) - April 25, 1931 #kapteeni (captain) - December 15, 1939 #majuri (major) - September 11, 1941.