The Knight"s Cross of the Iron Cross was awarded to recognise extreme battlefield bravery or successful military leadership. Heinz Hackler was listed as missing in action near Antwerp, Belgium after being hit by Allied flak during Operation Bodenplatte. Heinz Hackler was credited with 56 aerial victories.
Bibliography.
Aviator Badge Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe (26 July 1943) Front Flying Clasp of the Luftwaffe in Gold Iron Cross (1939) 2nd Class 1st Class Eastern Front Medal Crimea Shield German Cross in Gold on 17 May 1943 as Oberfeldwebel in the III./Jagdgeschwader 77 Knight"s Cross of the Iron Cross on 19 August 1944 as Fahnenjunker-Oberfeldwebel and pilot in the III./Jagdgeschwader 77.
