Gerhard Konopka
Panzergrenadier Division Großdeutscheland
Karachev
Oberleutnant
1943
Dragon Cyber Hobby 70334

Figura Fuori Produzione (2004) ################################################## Knights Cross Recipient Gerhard Konopka "GD" Gross Duestchland Gerhard Konopka of "GD" got the CCC in Gold in June 1943, the first soldier to do so. Close Combat Clasp. Available in gold, silver and bronze. Hitler, Himmler and just a few other VERY senior Nazis were able to present a gold CCC. On 25 November 1942, the Close Combat Clasp was instituted for achievement in hand to hand fighting in close quarters. The award was given in three classes: For 15 days of combat a Bronze Class was awarded. For 30 days of combat a Silver Class. For 50 days of combat a Gold Class. If the soldier was wounded in battle, the criteria was reduced to 10, 20 and 40 days. It was also given as a posthumous award and presented to the next-of-kin with a certificate. In addition the award was also retroactively credited for those soldiers who participated since the initial invasion of the Soviet Union on 22 June 1941. For 8 months service, 5 close combat days were credited. For 12 months service, 10 close combat days were credited. For 15 months service, 15 close combat days were credited. The Close Combat Clasp was worn above the upper left uniform pocket. The award was authorized to be presented by regimental commander or equivalent. Combat days were entered in the soldier’s record and certified. A certificate was awarded in conjunction with the CCC.