Hermann Maringgele – SS-Kavallerie-Regiment 15 “Florian Geyer” (RK+NKIG)

Original Postwar Signature on a Postwar Photo of Hermann Maringgele. SS-Untersturmführer Hermann Maringgele (29.11.1911 † 21.07.2000) earned the Nahkampfspange in Gold and the Ritterkreuz on February 21, 1945 as SS-Hauptscharführer und Zugführer in 2. Schwadron/ SS-Kavallerie-Regiment 15 of the 8. SS-Kavallerie-Division “Florian Geyer”. He earned the most Nahkampftage of all the bearers (84)! Measuring: 17,7×12,5cm.

Ritterkreuz: “SS-Hauptscharführer Maringgele demonstrated extraordinary bravery and prudence as a leader during the fighting for Fortress Budapest. Over the course of 37 assault/patrol operations, some of which were conducted far behind enemy lines, he inflicted significant losses on the enemy and obtained much valuable reconnaissance. Through his bold operations (their success made possible solely due to his leadership and personal example) Maringgele was able to firm up the front of his Regiment time and again, and their success contributed significantly to the ability of the pocket’s frontline in this area to be maintained despite the strong enemy superiority. During the ordered breakout from the Budapest pocket Maringgele took control of a group of 60 men, and he led them deep through enemy territory in an exemplary manner. With these men he was the first soldier from the pocket to reach the German lines already on the 13.02.1945. SS-Hauptscharführer Maringgele has been involved in well over 50 days of close combat.”