Heinz Finke

Who was Heinz Finke?

Heinz Finke was a highly decorated Major in the Wehrmacht during World War II and an Oberst in the Bundeswehr. 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. He was also awarded the very rare Close Combat Clasp in Gold one of only 631 awards. Heinz Finke was captured by Soviet troops in March 1945 and was held until 1955. He later joined the Bundeswehr in 1956 and served until retirement in 1972.