Oskar Ruut

Oskar Ruut (birthname Oskar Rosenstock, April 24, 1916 - August 3, 1944) was an Estonian Hauptsturmfuhrer in World War II, who served in the Battalion "Narva" and in 20th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS (1st Estonian).

Oskar Ruut was born in Valga and he studied at Valga grade school, later 1932-1935 at Valga gymnasium. After graduating gymnasium Ruut joined with Estonian Army, serving in 3rd Infantry Battalion in Valga. After graduating Ruut was promoted to Corporal and was sent to 7th Infantry Regiment and on February 24, 1937 he was promoted to Lipnik. After that Ruut studied at Tartu University.

In 1941, Ruut organized a group of volunteers to fought against Soviet Union. Also he and his group helped to liberate Tallinn from Red Army.

In the early 1942, Ruut joined with German Army and was sent to line of Leningrad on March 3.

Ruut joined with Estonian Legion and he was sent to Bad Tölz officers school, which he graduated with very good exams results and was promoted to Obersturmfuhrer. Oskar Ruut was sent to Dnieper River for leading the 4. Company of Battalion "Narva". He fought with "Narva" in Kharkiv and in Cherkasy. He served Iron Cross 2nd & 1st class there for showing valor in these tough battles.

Battalion "Narva" came back to home, Estonia and was sent to reinforce to Kehra.

On August 1, 1944, at the Battle of Tannenberg Line, Ruut destroyed two Soviet tanks receiving three wounds in his head and right shoulder but after two days he was back in the line again. Oskar Ruut died on August 3 after destroying three Soviet tanks but fourth T-34 drove over Ruut.

Oskar Ruut is buried to Toila War Cemetery.

et:Oskar Ruut