Hitler's Commanders: German Action in the Field 1939-1945

When Adolf Hitler rose to power in Germany in 1933, he not only became the leader of the country but also gained control over its armed forces. Over the course of World War II, Hitler relied heavily on his commanders to execute his military strategy and conquer various territories across Europe. In this article, we will explore the key commanders who played crucial roles in the German action in the field between 1939 and 1945.

Field Marshal Erwin Rommel: The Desert Fox

Hitler's Commanders: German Action in the Field, 1939–1945

by James Lucas (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1157 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	289 pages

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One of the most famous and respected commanders of the German army was Erwin Rommel. Known as the Desert Fox, Rommel achieved significant success in North Africa, where he commanded the Afrika Korps. His innovative tactics and ability to outmaneuver his opponents earned him great admiration from both colleagues and enemies. Despite being on the losing side, Rommel's skills as a commander were highly regarded even by his adversaries.

General Heinz Guderian: The Father of Blitzkrieg

Heinz Guderian is often credited as the mastermind behind Germany's Blitzkrieg strategy. As a general of the Panzer forces, Guderian played a vital role in the successful invasions of Poland, France, and later the Soviet Union. His understanding of armored warfare and his emphasis on speed and mobility revolutionized the way wars were fought, leaving a lasting impact on military tactics around the world.

Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt: A Strategic Genius

An experienced and highly respected militarist, Gerd von Rundstedt proved to be an essential figure in Hitler's command structure. Known for his calm and assertive approach, Rundstedt excelled in strategic planning and played a key role in several major offensives, particularly in the early stages of the war. His insights and leadership skills made him one of the most trusted commanders of the German army.

Field Marshal Albert Kesselring: Defense Specialist

Albert Kesselring distinguished himself as a skilled defensive strategist. He successfully held the German position in Italy and was known for his ability to exploit the natural terrain to his advantage. Kesselring's expertise in defensive warfare played a crucial role in delaying the Allied advance in Italy, buying valuable time for German forces to regroup and reinforce their positions.

General Friedrich Paulus: Stalingrad's Tragic Hero

Friedrich Paulus is remembered for his unsuccessful command during the Battle of Stalingrad. Despite significant successes early on, Paulus ultimately fell victim to Hitler's rigid orders and strategic mistakes. His inability to break out of the encirclement led to the complete destruction of the German Sixth Army. Paulus' surrender marked one of the key turning points in World War II.

Hitler's commanders played critical roles in executing German action in the field during World War II. Their tactical innovations, strategic planning, and leadership skills contributed greatly to Hitler's military successes, at least in the early stages of the war. However, as the conflict progressed, Hitler's flawed decision-making and interference began to undermine the effectiveness of his commanders, leading to devastating consequences for the German army.

While some of these commanders, like Rommel, are remembered as brilliant military minds, others, such as Paulus, became tragic figures entangled in Hitler's megalomaniacal vision of the future. Understanding the roles and actions of these commanders provides invaluable insights into the complexities of the Second World War and the individuals who shaped it.

Now, over 75 years later, we continue to study Hitler's commanders not only to learn from history but also to ensure that such destructive ideologies never take hold again.

Hitler's Commanders: German Action in the Field, 1939–1945

by James Lucas (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1157 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	289 pages

FREE

As absolute as Hitler's control over the German war machine was, it depended on the ability, judgment and unquestioning loyalty of the senior officers charged with putting his ideas, however difficult, into effect.Top military historian James Lucas examines the stories of fourteen of these men: all of different rank, from varied backgrounds, and highly awarded, they exemplify German military prowess at its most dangerous. Among his subjects are Eduard Dietl, the commander of German forces in Norway and Eastern Europe; Werner Kampf, one of the most successful Panzer commanders of the war; and Kurt Meyer, commander of the Hitler Youth Division and one of Germany's youngest general officers.The author, one of the leading experts on all aspects of German military conduct of the Second World War, offers the reader a rare look into the nature of the German Army a curious mix of individual strength, petty officialdom and pragmatic action.