Burghardt von Saldern-Wilsnack

Burghardt von Saldern-Wilsnack (9 March 1916 – 6 October 2002) was a highly decorated Major in the Wehrmacht during World War II and an Oberstleutnant in the Bundeswehr. He was also a recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross was awarded to recognise extreme battlefield bravery or successful military leadership. Burghardt von Saldern-Wilsnack was captured by Soviet troops during Operation Bagration in June 1944. He was held in captivity until 1954 and joined the Bundeswehr in 1957 serving until 1972.

Awards and decorations

 * Iron Cross (1939)
 * 2nd Class
 * 1st Class
 * Close Combat Clasp
 * in Bronze
 * Infantry Assault Badge
 * Eastern Front Medal
 * Honour Roll Clasp of the Army (7 September 1943)
 * German Cross in Gold (23 June 1943)
 * Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 4 May 1944 as Hauptmann and commander of II. / Panzergrenadier-Regiment 51 (motorisiert)