August Zehender


August Zehender was a German SS commander during the Nazi era. He led the SS Division Maria Theresia during World War II and was a recipient of the Knight's Cross of the [Iron Cross with Oak Leaves]. He killed himself in Budapest in the closing months of the war.

Life

Zehender was posted to the SS-Verfügungstruppe in 1935. He was given command of a motorcycle battalion in the SS Division Das Reich. At the end of June 1941, Zehender was wounded on the Eastern Front at Losza. After his recovery he was posted to the SS Cavalry Brigade. He subsequently served with the 8th [SS Cavalry Division Florian Geyer]. In the spring of 1944, he was given command of the newly formed 22nd [SS Volunteer Cavalry Division] "Maria Theresia", with which he fought at the Siege of Budapest later that year.
With his unit encircled by the Red Army, Zehender was severely wounded in action on 11 February 1945 in Budapest and killed himself.

Awards