Heinz Paul Adolff

Who was Heinz Paul Adolff?

Heinz Paul Adolff was a highly decorated Major der Reserves in the Fallschirmjäger during World War II. 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. Heinz Paul Adolff was mortally wounded trying to destroy the Primasole Bridge over the River Simeto on 17 July 1943 during the Allied invasion of Sicily. Adolff attempted to drive a truck loaded with two aerial bombs onto the bridge. After two failed attempts he was severely wounded on the third attempt and succumbed to wounds shortly afterwards. He was posthumously awarded the Knight's Cross and promoted to Major der Reserves.