Richard Heidrich facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Heidrich
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Heidrich in 1941
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| Born | 27 July 1896 Lawalde |
| Died | 22 December 1947 (aged 51) Hamburg-Bergedorf |
| Allegiance |  German Empire Weimar Republic Nazi Germany |
| Service/ |
Reichsheer Reichswehr Luftwaffe |
| Years of service | 1914–45 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands held | 7th Air Division 1st Parachute Division 1st Parachute Corps |
| Battles/wars | World War I
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| Awards | Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords |
Richard Heidrich (born July 27, 1896 – died December 22, 1947) was a German general during World War II. He was known for leading paratroopers, who are soldiers trained to jump from airplanes. He received a very high military award called the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords.
Heidrich was taken as a prisoner of war on May 3, 1945. He was released in July 1947. He passed away on December 22, 1947, in a hospital in Hamburg-Bergedorf, Germany.
Contents
Richard Heidrich's Early Life and Military Start
Richard Heidrich was born in Lawalde, Germany. He began his military career early, joining the army in 1914. This was at the start of World War I. He served in the German army during this major global conflict.
After World War I, he continued his service in the German military. He was part of the Reichswehr, which was Germany's army during the time between the two World Wars.
Joining the Air Force
Later, Heidrich joined the Luftwaffe, which was the German air force. He became a specialist in leading paratroopers. These are soldiers who jump from planes using parachutes. They are often used to surprise enemies or capture important areas quickly.
Heidrich's Role in World War II
During World War II, Richard Heidrich played a significant role. He commanded several important units of paratroopers. His leadership was recognized in many battles.
Key Battles and Commands
Heidrich led soldiers in several major battles. These included the Battle of France, where Germany invaded France. He also fought in the Battle of Crete, an important island battle.
His troops were also involved in fighting on the Eastern Front. This was a huge and difficult part of the war. He also took part in battles in Italy, like Operation Husky in Sicily. His units fought in the tough Battle of Ortona and the long Battle of Monte Cassino.
Leading Paratrooper Divisions
Heidrich commanded the 7th Air Division. Later, he led the 1st Parachute Division. He eventually became the commander of the 1st Parachute Corps. This shows his rise through the ranks.
Awards and Recognition
Richard Heidrich received several high honors for his bravery and leadership. These awards recognized his service during the wars.
Important Military Awards
He received the Clasp to the Iron Cross in 1941. This was given for his actions in combat.
He also earned the German Cross in Gold in 1942. This award was for his outstanding bravery.
The Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords
His highest honor was the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. This was a very rare and prestigious award.
- He first received the Knight's Cross in June 1941.
- He then received the Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross in February 1944.
- Finally, he was awarded the Swords to the Knight's Cross in March 1944.
These awards showed his exceptional leadership and courage in battle.
After the War
After World War II ended, Heidrich became a prisoner. He was released a couple of years later. He passed away in late 1947.
