Allegiance Nazi Germany Name Heinz Adolff | Years of service 1935–37
1939–43 Service/branch Luftwaffe | |
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Born 29 June 1914
Backnang ( 1914-06-29 ) Rank Major der Reserves (Posthumously) Commands held Fallschirm-Pionier-Battalion 1 Battles/wars World War II
Battle of France
Battle of Crete
Operation Barbarossa
Siege of Leningrad
Operation Husky Died July 17, 1943, Sicily, Italy Awards Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross Battles and wars Battle of France, Battle of Crete | ||
Heinz Paul Adolff (29 June 1914 – 17 July 1943) was a highly decorated Major der Reserves in the Fallschirmjager during World War II. 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. Heinz Paul Adolff was mortally wounded trying to destroy the Primasole Bridge over the River Simeto on 17 July 1943 during the Allied invasion of Sicily. Adolff attempted to drive a truck loaded with two aerial bombs onto the bridge. After two failed attempts he was severely wounded on the third attempt and succumbed to wounds shortly afterwards. He was posthumously awarded the Knight's Cross and promoted to Major der Reserves.