NCO Kurt Knispel is considered to be the world’s greatest tank ace. On the Eastern front, he's credited with 168 confirmed and 195 unconfirmed tank kills in WW2. He was considered the tank’s equivalent of the Red Baron; making him the most successful fighter in the history of armored warfare
In 1940, Knispel applied to join the German army’s armored branch after completing an apprenticeship at an automobile factory.
He fought in nearly every type of German tank, working as a loader, gunner, or commander. He is credited with destroying a T-34 tank from 3,000 meters.
Despite being heavily decorated, he never seemed to strive for awards. Whenever there was a dispute over who got a kill, he always allowed the other party to get the credit.
His slow promotion is credited to conflicts he had with superior officers. He once attacked an officer he saw mistreating Soviet prisoners of war. He also wore longer than approved hair, had facial hair and a tattoo.
The 23 year old NCO was severely wounded on 28 April 1945 by shrapnel to his head when his Tiger II was hit in battle with Soviet tanks and the ammunition exploded. He died two hours later in a German field hospital.
On 10 April 2013, Czech authorities said that Knispel's remains were found with 15 other German soldiers in an unmarked grave behind a church wall in Vrbovec, identified by his dog tags.
While some might quite rightly condemn the causes, which a soldier loyal to his country or region doesn't usually have much control over anyway, there is nothing wrong with admiring that individual's soldierly qualities and bearing. Learning more about some individuals of note from both sides provides a handy wedge into the overall combat situation and the reality of war than mere recitations of battles and casualties and Generals will miss. It adds an essential human dimension. #oddball #ww2 #panzer #stayzero