| Josef Diefenthal | |
|---|---|
| Nickname | Jupp |
| Born | 5 October 1915 |
| Died | 13 April 2001 |
| Allegiance | Nazi Germany |
| Service/branch | Waffen-SS |
| Years of service | 1939–1945 |
| Rank | Sturmbannfuhrer |
| Unit | 1st SS Division Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Awards | Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross German Cross in Gold Iron Cross 1st Class Iron Cross 2nd Class Eastern Front Medal |
Josef Diefenthal (5 October 1915 — 13 April 2001) was a Sturmbannfuhrer (Major) in the Waffe-SS who was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 5 February 1945 for his exploits during the Ardennes Offensive, while in command of the 3rd Battalion, 2nd SS Panzer Grenadier Regiment, 1st SS Division Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler.[1]
Diefenthal was found guilty of war crimes committed during the Battle of the Bulge, and sentenced to death, which was changed to life imprisonment. He was released in 1956.[2]