Franz Siebert

Franz Siebert (17 March 1915 – 17 January 1999) was a German Oberfeldwebel (staff sergeant) who served with the 3 Kompanie/Panzerjäger Abteilung 306 during World War II. The unit was part of the 306 Infanterie Division serving on the Eastern Front.

Biography
Siebert was born in Gelsenkirchen on 17 March 1915.

Notable Battles
During the latter part of 1943, the 306 Infanterie Division was involved in very heavy combat northeast of Krivoi Rog, Ukraine. 3/Panzerjäger Abteilung was positioned near the village of Mrajewka, where Oberfeldwebel Siebert commanded 2 self-propelled guns, in position to defend against enemy attack.

Early one morning, the Soviet Union attacked with armour support. Siebert opened fire. After a short, but bitter exchange, three enemy tanks lay blazing, victims of Siebert's attack. Shortly afterwards, two more Soviet tanks and an unmanned gun started to probe Siebert's positions. A few well-placed shots later, the Soviet unmanned gun was in flames and the tanks had retreated.

Soon approximately 200 Soviet infantry started attacking, supported by more T-34 tanks. Siebert's little group redoubled their efforts and took out two more enemy tanks in quick succession. However, his ammunition was running low, so he withdrew towards the edge of the village to avoid any attempt to encircle him. The battle flared again, and Siebert took out another three enemy Tanks.

By now, Siebert's ammunition was exhausted, but this did not deter him. Dismounting, he stormed towards the Soviets, throwing grenades and opening fire with his machine pistol. Siebert held off the enemy long enough for the two German assault guns to withdraw safely.

For his successful destruction of so many enemy tanks in this fierce battle, Oberfeldwebel Siebert was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 9 July 1944