Ernst Schneck

Ernst Schneck (14 September 1917 – 23 October 1999) was a highly decorated Hauptmann in the Wehrmacht during World War II. He was also a recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross, and was awarded to recognise extreme battlefield bravery or successful military leadership. He was also awarded the very rare Close Combat Clasp in Gold, one of only 631 awarded. Ernst Schneck was captured by Soviet troops in 1945 and was released in 1949.

Awards and decorations

 * Iron Cross (1939)
 * 2nd Class (12 November 1941)
 * 1st Class (26 August 1942)
 * Honour Roll Clasp of the Army (5 April 1945)
 * Infantry Assault Badge in Silver
 * Tank Destruction Badge in Silver
 * Close Combat Clasp
 * in Bronze
 * in Silver
 * in Gold (1 March 1945)
 * German Cross in Gold (7 October 1943)
 * Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 16 November 1944 as Hauptmann der Reserves and commander of I./Grenadier-Regiment 698