Walter Hörnlein

Walter "Papa" Hörnlein (2 January 1893 – 14 September 1961) was a General der Infanterie in the Wehrmacht during World War II, and one of only 882 recipients of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves. This award was given to recognise extreme battlefield bravery or outstanding military leadership.

He was the commander (1 April 1942 - 27 January 1944) of the Großdeutschland Division.

Walter Hörnlein surrendered to American troops on 4 May 1945 and was held until 1947.

Awards and decorations

 * Iron Cross (1914)
 * 2nd Class
 * Wound Badge (1914)
 * in Black
 * Honour Cross of the World War 1914/1918 (17 August 1934)
 * Iron Cross (1939)
 * 2nd Class
 * 1st Class
 * Infantry Assault Badge
 * Eastern Front Medal (22 September 1942)
 * German Cross in Gold (14 February 1943)
 * Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves
 * Knight's Cross on 30 July 1941 as Oberst and commander of Infanterie-Regiment 80
 * 213th Oak Leaves on 15 March 1943 as Generalleutnant and commander of Infanterie-Division (mot.) "Großdeutschland"