Unteroffizier Severin Schwarz - Infanterie-Regiment Großdeutschland

Infanterie-Regiment Großdeutschland was formed as an elite formation in June 1939 from Wachregiment Berlin, a unit that was originally formed to protect the post-World War I German government. It was superbly trained and equipped, and unlike most Heer units that were localily raised, it was formed of men from all across Germany. The regiment was not committed to the war in Poland, but saw action during the campaign in the West starting in May 1940. It distinguished itself during the crossing of the Meuse and the drive to Dunkirk, and later fought against Yugoslavian forces during the German invasion of the Balkans in April 1941. During Operation Barbarossa, the elite Infanterie-Regiment Großdeutschland operated with Heinz Guderian’s 2. Panzerarmee. As part of Army Group Center, the regiment fought through the summer battles with much success, including the divisionary push into Ukraine and the fighting east of Kiev. This award of the Iron Cross Second Class was rendered to Unteroffizier Severin Schwarz, a member of 5. Kompanie, on September 26, 1941. He was surely recognized for bravery in the face of the enemy as Großdeutschland pushed into the Ukraine from the north. 

On very rare occasions, awards of the Iron Cross were bestowed below division level. This particular example is a prime example as Infanterie-Regiment Großdeutschland was in a unique position to award Iron Crosses given its independent status at this stage of the war. Schwarz’s document was signed by Oberst Walter Hörnlein who commanded the regiment from August 1941 through April 1942 (photo credit Wehrkundearchiv).  

The situation map of the Eastern Front showing Infanterie-Regiment Großdeutschland pushing into and through the Red Army lines

Schwarz was born on June 16, 1919 in the German town of Rothnbach. Awarded the Iron Cross just three months after his 22nd birthday, he died just a year and a half later, on New Year’s Eve, 1942. His death came in a field hospital in the Rshev sector (the Rshev Meat Grinder) after being heavily wounded, including the loss/amputation of his right foot.