Grouping Obergefreiter 11.Panzer-Division Kradschützen-Bataillon

(D23683)
Josef Kersten, Corporal (Obergefreiter) Infantry / motor reconnaissance.
1) Wehrpass, 30.10.39.
2) Iron Cross 2nd Class, 18.12.43. Signed by the CO of the X.Armeekorps, General der Infanterie Erich Raschick (GCiS 1.8.43).

Also entitled to: Wound Badge in Black (31.8.40), Tank Assault Badge in Bronze (22.2.42), Wound Badge in Silver (24.2.43).

Born 1911 in Hamburg. He served: Feb.-Apr.40 with Infanterie-Ersatz-Bataiilon 76 based in Hamburg-Wandsbek and Apr.-May 40 with Schützen-Regiment 110 of the 11.Schützen-Brigade (11.Panzer-Division). He got wounded (shot through his left arm) on 18.5.40 during the battle in France (battle for the citadel of Le Quesnoy). After recovery he served Aug.40 one week with Infanterie-Regiment 110 of the 33.Infanterie-Division (Nov.40 15.Panzer-Division). Aug.40-Jan.43 he served with Kradschützen-Bataillon 61 (former Schützen-Regiment 110 and Schützen-Regiment 111) of the 11.Panzer-Division active in Middle and Southern Russia (1941 Shitomir, Uman, Kiew, Wjasma, Moscow; 1942 Gshatsk, Orel, Woronesh, Don, Donez). He got wounded (shot right leg) for the second time on 13.7.41 and for the third time (strive shot head) on 12.1.43. He was Oct.43 discharged from military service due to his injuries.