Finnish anti-tank soldier with German made anti-tank weapon Panzerfaust in Ihantala 1944.06.30

Tank destroyer

Portrait of a soldier who has distinguished himself in action north-east of Lake Ladoga and has earned some rest in the rear. Harlu, 26.7.1944. SA-kuva 156258

distinguished soldier

Corporal Veikko Vehviläinen (1920-1998) displaying his collection of Soviet emblems and insignias. Simanisto, 28.9.1941.

He started military service in 1940, took part in the Winter War at Ilomantsi, and was squad leader/platoon second-in-command in Finnish 7th Division 1941-1944. He was skillful user of various weapons and tended to perform the most dangerous tasks single-handedly to save his men. He was awarded the Mannerheim Cross just two days before the date of this photo,mostly for destroying a strong Soviet base with his squad 16.7.-41. He was 15th of the total of 191 recipients.
