Desert Fox: The Storied Military Career Of Erwin Rommel

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Erwin Rommel, revered as the "Desert Fox," remains an enigmatic and captivating figure in military history. His daring exploits and unconventional tactics earned him both admiration and fear during World War II. This article delves into the life and career of this legendary German general, exploring his rise to prominence, his military campaigns, and the enduring legacy he left behind.

Early Life and Military Beginnings:

Desert Fox: The Storied Military Career of Erwin Rommel

by Samuel W. Mitcham

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16058 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	370 pages

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Erwin Johannes Eugen Rommel was born on November 15, 1891, in Heidenheim, Germany. As a young man, he pursued a military career and joined the Royal Württemberg Army in 1910. During World War I, Rommel served with distinction on both the Western and Italian fronts, earning the Iron Cross for his bravery.

Rise to Prominence:

In the interwar years, Rommel rose through the ranks of the Reichswehr, Germany's post-World War I military. He played a pivotal role in developing the new Wehrmacht, the German armed forces, and earned a reputation as an innovative and forward-thinking officer. His treatise, "Infantry Attacks," became a widely-read military manual.

World War II and the North African Campaign:

With the outbreak of World War II, Rommel was appointed commander of the 7th Panzer Division. His lightning-fast tactics during the invasion of France in 1940 earned him widespread acclaim. In February 1941, he was sent to North Africa to command the German Afrika Korps.

Desert Campaign:

In North Africa, Rommel faced a formidable challenge in the form of the British Eighth Army, led by General Bernard Montgomery. Despite limited resources and logistical difficulties, Rommel's Afrika Korps repeatedly outmaneuvered and outfought the British. His cunning and audacious strategies, such as the "Gazala Cauldron," earned him the nickname "The Desert Fox."

Siege of Tobruk and Battle of El Alamein:

In 1942, Rommel's Afrika Korps achieved one of its greatest victories by capturing the strategic port city of Tobruk. However, British reinforcements and General Montgomery's superior generalship led to a decisive defeat for the Germans at the Second Battle of El Alamein in 1942.

Retreat and Tunis Campaign:

Driven back by the Allies, Rommel's battered Afrika Korps retreated into Tunisia. Allied forces surrounded and besieged the German and Italian forces in Tunisia from November 1942 to May 1943. Rommel, unable to break through the Allied lines, was evacuated to Italy.

Italy and the End of the War:

After Tunisia, Rommel was appointed commander of Army Group B in Italy. He faced the Allied invasion of Italy in 1943 and fought a determined defense against overwhelming odds. However, his pleas to withdraw the German forces from Italy were ignored by Hitler.

Implication in the July 20 Plot:

As the war drew to a close, Rommel became implicated in the July 20 Plot, an attempt to assassinate Hitler. Although he had no direct involvement in the plot, Rommel's close associations with some of the conspirators sealed his fate. Hitler ordered his suicide to avoid a public trial.

Legacy:

Erwin Rommel's legacy as a military commander remains complex and controversial. While his tactical brilliance and innovative approach to warfare earned him widespread respect, his association with the Nazi regime and his role in the Holocaust have cast a shadow over his career. Nevertheless, Rommel remains a subject of fascination and debate among historians and military enthusiasts alike.

Key Characteristics of Rommel's Military Career:

• Fast-Paced and Decisive: Rommel's trademark was his ability to move his troops with speed and precision, often surprising and overwhelming his opponents.
• Ambitious and Risk-Taking: Rommel was willing to take risks to achieve his objectives, even when faced with overwhelming odds.
• Innovative Tactician: He developed new and innovative tactics, such as the "Rommel Screen," to counter Allied air superiority.
• Inspiration to His Troops: Rommel was a charismatic leader who inspired fierce loyalty and camaraderie among his soldiers.
• Controversial Figure: Rommel's association with the Nazi regime and his role in the Holocaust have led to conflicting interpretations of his legacy.

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Erwin Rommel's military career was a tapestry woven with brilliance, controversy, and tragedy. His daring exploits and innovative tactics made him a formidable opponent and an enduring symbol of German military prowess. While his legacy remains complex, his influence on military strategy and tactics continues to be studied and debated to this day. The Desert Fox remains an enigmatic and captivating figure, whose story continues to fascinate and inspire generations.

Desert Fox: The Storied Military Career of Erwin Rommel

by Samuel W. Mitcham

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16058 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	370 pages

FREE