RK awarding ceremony ...

[Sturmmann]

Perhaps someone could identify the officer with a "fresh" Ritterkreuz.
Photo was taken near Tallinn (Estonia) in May 1944.

[stgeorge64]

Can you post a clearer image?

If so, I think you will have a far greater chance of someone being able to put a name to the face. There are those with an encyclopedic knowledge of RKT from all branches of the Wehrmacht, who frequent these boards.

Regards Richard.

[Sturmmann]

Here is a bit better photo of the ceremony.
Thanks.

[George Lengyel]

Hi Sturmmann,

Otto Mertens

Regards, George

[Sturmmann]

Thank You very much!

[Sturmmann]

Maybe it is possible to identify this officer also?
He took part of the same ceremony in Tallinn, Estonia.

[Elwyn]

Indeed it looked like Mj Otto Mertens, of III/FüsRgt 68, 23 ID. Not many candidates in 23 ID who won RK before him on 11.04.44. Infact, 2 men: Jordan died in 43 and FrHr vd Bussche-Streithorst was too young to have EKI spange.

OTL Rudolf Trittel, later ELT. was Kmdr GrRgt 9. He did not win his RK in 23 ID. Exact position of InF Assault Badge and Wound Badge but no DKiG unless the badge was something else!

Cheers
Elwyn

[BILL]

Thats amazing. Where do you guys go to get such information? No doubt years of research. Any hints on sources of photos and other info other than hit and miss at the local library? Thanks.