He is recognized as the first recipient (posthumous) of the Iron Cross during the First World War.
He joined the 84th Infantry Regiment as a recruit in the autumn of 1913, having previously been a gardener.
On 23 August 1914, during the Battle of Mons, the 84th Infantry Regiment came upon resistance and closed swing bridge Mons–Condé canal while seeking to extend their position into the east side of the canal.
Meanwhile, Niemeyer opened the bridge allowing the Germans troops to cross in greater numbers.
[2][3] Niemeyer is buried in St Symphorien Military Cemetery in Plot G1 row R grave 6.