Famous German Soldiers

Claus von Stauffenberg was a German army officer who played a key role in the conspiracy against Adolf Hitler within the Wehrmacht. He is best known for his failed attempt to assassinate Hitler in 1944. Stauffenberg participated in various military campaigns during World War II, including the Invasion of Poland, Operation Barbarossa in the Soviet Union, and the Tunisian campaign. Alongside Major Generals Henning von Tresckow and Hans Oster, he was a central figure in the plot to overthrow Hitler, ultimately leading to his execution by firing squad.

Erich Hartmann was a highly successful German fighter pilot during World War II, known as the most successful fighter ace in the history of aerial warfare. He flew over 1,400 combat missions and engaged in aerial combat on 825 separate occasions. Credited with shooting down a total of 352 Allied aircraft, he achieved numerous awards and honors for his outstanding performance in combat. Following the war, he faced imprisonment before being cleared of charges, eventually joining the West German Air Force and becoming a civilian flight instructor until his death.

Hans-Ulrich Rudel was a highly decorated German ground-attack pilot during World War II, credited with the destruction of numerous enemy assets including tanks, battleships, and artillery emplacements. He flew over 2,500 missions on the Eastern Front, primarily in the Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bomber. After the war, Rudel continued his involvement in right-wing politics, arms dealing, and providing support to fugitives. He also played a role in the development of the A-10 Thunderbolt II due to his expertise in aerial tank destruction.

Günther Rall was a highly decorated German military aviator and General with a career spanning nearly forty years. He was the third most successful fighter pilot in history, credited with 275 enemy aircraft destroyed in 621 combat missions during World War II. Rall served in various roles during the war, achieving numerous accolades including the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. Post-war, he joined the West German Air Force, held key positions, and received the Order of Merit for his service.

Helmuth von Moltke the Younger was a German general who served as Chief of the Great German General Staff. He led the German Army during the early stages of World War I. Controversy surrounds his legacy due to his role in Germany's decision to go to war and the invasion of France and Belgium. Moltke's leadership during crucial battles, such as the First Battle of the Marne, has been scrutinized and debated by historians.

Karl Wolff was a German SS functionary who held various high-ranking positions during World War II, including serving as Chief of Personal Staff to Heinrich Himmler and as an SS liaison to Adolf Hitler. He played a key role in the early surrender of Axis forces in occupied Italy, effectively ending the war in that theatre ahead of the rest of Europe. Wolff escaped prosecution at the Nuremberg Trials due to his involvement in Operation Sunrise but was later sentenced to 15 years in prison in West Germany for his role in the deportation of Polish Jews.

Lothar von Richthofen was a skilled German fighter ace during World War I, achieving 40 victories. Following the war, he transitioned to working on a farm before entering the industrial sector. Eventually, he returned to aviation by becoming a pilot, flying passengers and mail between Berlin and Hamburg. Tragically, his life was cut short at the age of 27 in a flying accident at Fuhlsbüttel.

Gerhard "Gerd" Barkhorn was a highly successful German military aviator during World War II, serving as a renowned wing commander in the Luftwaffe. He was the second most successful fighter pilot in history, achieving over 300 aerial victories. Barkhorn led various squadrons and groups, earning prestigious awards for his exceptional skills and leadership. After the war, he continued his aviation career in the German Air Force of the Federal Republic of Germany, retiring in 1975. Barkhorn tragically passed away in 1983 following a car accident.

Hans Langsdorff was a German naval officer known for commanding the pocket battleship Admiral Graf Spee during the Battle of the River Plate in 1939. He scuttled the ship after being unable to escape a Royal Navy squadron and later died by suicide in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Langsdorff's decision to scuttle the Admiral Graf Spee showcased his strategic thinking and commitment to his duty as a naval officer, even in the face of overwhelming odds. His actions during this battle left a lasting impact on naval warfare history.

Friedrich Olbricht, a German general during World War II, played a significant role in the 20 July Plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler in 1944. As a senior staff officer with the rank of infantry general, Olbricht was a key figure in the Resistance movement. He maintained secret contacts with resistance leaders, strategically placing sympathetic officers in key positions and encouraging field commanders to support the cause. Olbricht's office became the hub of Resistance plotting, working closely with Claus von Stauffenberg towards the goal of a post-Nazi regime.

Kurt Knispel was a German tank commander known for his remarkable service during World War II. He demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery in combat, earning a reputation as one of the most successful tank aces of the war. Knispel's career was marked by numerous victories and achievements on the battlefield, making him a highly respected figure among his peers. His legacy continues to be celebrated in historical accounts and literature, highlighting his significant contributions to armored warfare.

Hans-Joachim Marseille was a German Luftwaffe fighter pilot and flying ace during World War II, known for his exceptional skills and numerous victories against the British Commonwealth's Desert Air Force in North Africa. Flying the Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter, Marseille claimed a total of 158 victories, earning him the nickname "Star of Africa." Despite a lackluster start in the Battle of Britain, Marseille's talent was recognized and developed under a new commander, culminating in his remarkable feat of shooting down 17 enemy fighters in three combat sorties in a single day.

Erich Priebke was a German mid-level SS commander in the SS police force (SiPo) of Nazi Germany. He was convicted of war crimes in Italy for commanding the unit responsible for the Ardeatine massacre in Rome in 1944, where 335 Italian civilians were killed in retaliation for a partisan attack. After fleeing to Argentina following the defeat of Nazi Germany, Priebke lived there for almost 50 years. His participation in the massacre was denounced in a book in 1991, and he was extradited to Italy in 1995 to face trial, which lasted over four years.

Rudolf Christoph Freiherr von Gersdorff was an officer in the German Army during World War II. He served as a Wehrmacht intelligence officer and was involved in an assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler in March 1943, where he planned a suicide bombing that failed due to Hitler leaving early. Gersdorff also played a significant role when soldiers from his unit discovered the mass graves of the Katyn massacre, a Soviet-perpetrated atrocity. His actions during this time show his involvement in high-stakes operations and his dedication to his duties.

Fritz Pfeffer was a German dentist who practiced in Berlin before the Nazi occupation. As a Jewish refugee, he fled to the Netherlands where he went into hiding with the Frank and Van Pels families during World War II. Despite the difficult circumstances, Pfeffer continued to provide dental care to those in hiding. His professional skills and expertise in dentistry were a valuable asset during their time in hiding. Unfortunately, he perished in the Neuengamme concentration camp in Northern Germany.

Oswald Boelcke was a pioneering flying ace during World War I, credited with 40 aerial victories. Known as the father of the German fighter air force, he was a highly influential mentor and tactician in the early years of air combat. Boelcke joined the Imperial German Army in 1911 and became one of the original fighter pilots in 1915. His combat experiences led him to codify the first manual of fighter tactics, the Dicta Boelcke, which emphasized individual pilot success and teamwork. Boelcke's leadership of Jagdstaffel 2 saw continued success until his tragic death in a mid-air collision in 1916. His legacy lives on through the impact he had on the development of air combat tactics and the pilots he trained.

Hermann Balck was a distinguished German Army officer who achieved the rank of General der Panzertruppe. He served with great distinction in both World War I and World War II, demonstrating exceptional leadership and tactical skills. Balck's strategic acumen and combat expertise were recognized through numerous decorations and awards. He played a crucial role in various military campaigns, particularly in armored warfare, and was known for his innovative approaches to command and battlefield tactics. Balck's career exemplifies a commitment to military excellence and dedication to his country.

Hans Speidel was a German military officer who served in the armies of the German Empire, Nazi Germany, and West Germany. He played a significant role in West German rearmament during the Cold War, integration into NATO, and international defense cooperation. Speidel was the first general officer of the Bundeswehr and served as Commander of the Allied Land Forces Central Europe. He was a key figure in West Germany's military leadership, negotiations, and integration into NATO, and also made contributions as a historian and writer.

Hans Conrad Schumann, also known as Konrad Schumann, was a member of the East German Bereitschaftspolizei. In 1961, during the construction of the Berlin Wall, he gained international attention when he made a daring escape to West Germany by jumping over the barbed wire fence. This iconic moment was captured in a photograph that symbolized the division of Germany. Following his escape, Schumann settled in West Germany and lived a relatively quiet life, occasionally speaking about his experience and the symbolism of his actions.

Alexander von Falkenhausen was a German general and military advisor to Chiang Kai-shek, playing a crucial role in reforming the Chinese army during the Sino-German cooperation. He was forced to return to Europe in 1938 when Germany withdrew its support for China due to pressure from Japan. In Europe, he served as the head of the military government of Belgium during its German occupation from 1940 to 1944. Falkenhausen's professional life was marked by his military expertise and leadership roles in both Asia and Europe.

Heinrich "Hein" Severloh, also known as the Beast of Omaha, served as a soldier in the German 352nd Infantry Division during World War II. He gained notoriety for his memoir, published in 2000, recounting his experiences defending Omaha Beach on D-Day. Severloh claimed to have caused significant casualties to American soldiers landing on the beach as a machine gunner. However, his claims have been met with skepticism by both US and German historians, who do not consider them credible.

Hermann Graf was a highly skilled German Luftwaffe fighter ace during World War II, achieving the historic milestone of 200 aerial victories. Serving on both the Eastern and Western Fronts, Graf demonstrated exceptional combat prowess, earning prestigious military decorations for his achievements. He played crucial roles in various fighter wings and special units, showcasing his leadership abilities and tactical expertise. Graf's career included training roles, combat operations, and commanding positions, culminating in his legacy as one of Germany's top fighter pilots of the war.

Heinrich Ehrler was a German Luftwaffe military aviator and wing commander during World War II. He was a skilled fighter ace, credited with 208 enemy aircraft shot down in over 400 combat missions. Ehrler initially served with the artillery and anti-aircraft artillery before transferring to the Jagdwaffe. He flew with Jagdgeschwader 77 and Jagdgeschwader 5, achieving most of his victories on the Eastern Front. Despite being court-martialed and stripped of his command, Ehrler's sentence was later commuted, and he continued to fly in air battles until his death in April 1945.

Fabian von Schlabrendorff was a German jurist, soldier, and member of the German resistance against Adolf Hitler. He served as a judge of the German Federal Constitutional Court from 1967 to 1975. Von Schlabrendorff played a significant role in opposing the Nazi regime, participating in the failed July 20, 1944 plot to assassinate Hitler. Despite facing personal risks, he remained committed to upholding justice and democracy throughout his professional career, making important contributions to the legal and judicial system in post-war Germany.

Erich Fellgiebel was a German Army general of signals known for his involvement in the resistance against Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party. He served as the head of the cipher bureau of the Ministry of the Reichswehr, later becoming the OKW/Chi. Fellgiebel played a key role in introducing the Enigma machine for encoding messages. Despite his efforts to establish a unified cipher agency, he faced opposition from high-ranking officials until General Albert Praun succeeded him after Fellgiebel's arrest and execution for his role in the 20 July plot.

Joachim Peiper was a German SS officer known for his roles as personal adjutant to Heinrich Himmler and as a tank commander in the Waffen-SS during World War II. He was involved in the implementation of the Holocaust and commanded the infamous Battle Group Peiper, which committed war crimes against civilians and PoWs. After the war, he worked for Porsche and Volkswagen before moving to France as a freelance translator. Peiper remained active in ex-SS networks and died in 1976 from asphyxiation in an arson attack on his home.

Friedrich August Eberhard von Mackensen was a German general who served as commander of the 1st Panzer Army and the 14th Army during World War II. Following the war, he was convicted for war crimes by a British military tribunal in Italy for his involvement in the Ardeatine massacre. He was sentenced to death, which was later commuted, and he was released in 1952. Mackensen's professional life was marked by his military leadership roles during the war and subsequent legal proceedings for his actions.

Irmfried Eberl was an Austrian psychiatrist and medical director who played a significant role in the euthanasia institutes in Brandenburg and Bernburg. He went on to become the first commandant of the Treblinka extermination camp, where he served as SS-Obersturmführer for a brief period. Following the end of the war, Eberl was arrested in January 1948. However, he chose to take his own life the following month to avoid facing trial for his actions during World War II.

Eduard Dietl was a German general who served during World War II, commanding the 20th Mountain Army. Known for his leadership skills, he was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords for his bravery and strategic acumen on the battlefield. Dietl's military career was distinguished by his command of mountain troops in challenging terrains, demonstrating his tactical expertise and ability to adapt to various combat situations during the war.

Tessy Antony de Nassau is a Luxembourgish businesswoman and non-profit executive. She has experience in various business sectors and is known for her dedication to philanthropy and social causes. Antony de Nassau has a proven track record of leadership in the non-profit sector, with a focus on initiatives related to education, healthcare, and women's empowerment. She is actively involved in promoting social change and improving the lives of others through her professional endeavors.

Franz Xaver Freiherr von Werra was a German World War II fighter pilot and flying ace who gained notoriety for being the only Axis prisoner of war to successfully escape from Canadian custody during the war. He managed to make his way back to Germany via a daring journey through the US, Mexico, South America, and Spain. Von Werra's escape and subsequent return to Germany earned him the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross in recognition of his bravery and resilience in the face of adversity.

General Adrian Dietrich Lothar von Trotha was a German military commander known for his involvement in the suppression of the Boxer Rebellion in Qing China as part of the Eight-Nation Alliance. He later served as the governor of German South West Africa and Commander in Chief of its colonial forces, where he is infamous for his brutal tactics during the Herero Wars, leading to a genocide that nearly wiped out the Namaqua Khoikhoi and the Herero people. Trotha's actions in these conflicts have been widely condemned for their extreme cruelty.

Wilhelm Ritter von Thoma was a German army officer with a distinguished military career spanning World War I, the Spanish Civil War, and World War II. He served as a general and was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. Von Thoma inadvertently disclosed classified information about the V-1 and V-2 weapons programmes while a prisoner of war in British captivity. His actions led to the disruption of the programme after British reconnaissance flights revealed rockets at the Peenemünde Army Research Center.

Kurt Meyer was an SS commander and convicted war criminal of Nazi Germany. He served in the Waffen-SS, participating in major WWII battles. He commanded the 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend during the Normandy invasion and received high military honors. Meyer was convicted of war crimes, including the Ardenne Abbey massacre, resulting in a death sentence later commuted to life in prison. After release, he became involved in HIAG, advocating for Waffen-SS members as brave fighters unconnected to Nazi crimes, a perspective refuted by historians.

Kurt von Hammerstein-Equord was a German general, holding the rank of Generaloberst, and served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Reichswehr, the armed forces of the Weimar Republic. He gained recognition for his opposition to Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime, being considered an outspoken critic. Hammerstein-Equord's professional life was marked by his dedication to the military and his commitment to upholding principles that stood in opposition to the ideologies and actions of the Nazi government.

Erich Bauer, also known as "Gasmeister," was a low-level commander in the SS of Nazi Germany. He played a significant role in the atrocities of the Holocaust, participating in the Action T4 program and later operating gas chambers at the Sobibór extermination camp during Operation Reinhard. His actions led to his sentencing to death in 1950, which was later commuted to life imprisonment. Bauer's professional life was marked by his involvement in the systematic genocide and brutalities carried out by the Nazi regime during World War II.

Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer was a highly skilled German Luftwaffe night-fighter pilot during World War II. Known as the highest-scoring night fighter ace in history, he achieved 121 victories, primarily against British four-engine bombers. Schnaufer was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds, Germany's highest military decoration at the time. He held various leadership positions within Nachtjagdgeschwader units and was eventually appointed as a wing commander. After the war, he returned to civilian life but tragically passed away in a road accident in 1950.

Dietrich von Choltitz was a German general who served in the military during both World War I and World War II. He rose through the ranks, becoming a Leutnant by the end of World War I. During World War II, he participated in key battles and eventually became known for his role as the last commander of Nazi-occupied Paris. Choltitz is remembered for allegedly defying Hitler's orders to destroy the city and instead surrendering it to Free French forces.

Otto Kittel was a highly skilled German fighter pilot during World War II, known for his remarkable combat achievements on the Eastern Front. Joining the Luftwaffe in 1939, he flew 583 combat missions and claimed 267 aerial victories, primarily against the Red Air Force. His success earned him multiple prestigious awards, including the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. Tragically, Kittel was shot down and killed by Soviet aircraft in February 1945, ending the career of one of the most successful German fighter pilots in history.

Heinz Hitler was a strong supporter of the Nazis and attended an elite boarding school. When World War II began, he joined the Wehrmacht and aspired to become an officer. He served as a signals subofficer with the 23rd Potsdamer Artillery Regiment on the Eastern Front during the invasion of the Soviet Union. He was captured by Soviet forces in January 1942 while collecting radio equipment and died at the Butyrka military prison in Moscow the following month at the age of 21.

Reinhard Gehlen was a German career intelligence officer who served multiple regimes and countries throughout his career. He rose to prominence during World War II as the chief of the Wehrmacht Fremde Heere Ost (FHO), an anti-Soviet military intelligence service. After the war, he offered his services and archives to the U.S. intelligence community, leading to the establishment of the Gehlen Organization focused on espionage against the Soviet Union. Gehlen later became the founding president of the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) of West Germany, playing a key role in shaping West German intelligence capabilities during the Cold War.

Heinz Lammerding was a German SS officer who commanded the SS Panzer Division Das Reich during World War II. He was involved in war crimes, including the Tulle and Oradour-sur-Glane massacres in occupied France. Lammerding was convicted in absentia for ordering the murder of approximately 750 French civilians. After serving a prison sentence in Germany, he remained protected by the country. Lammerding's professional life was marked by his leadership role in the SS and his involvement in atrocities during the Nazi era.

Heinz Harmel was a German SS commander during World War II, known for his leadership of the 10th SS Panzer Division Frundsberg. He began his career in the SS in 1935 and quickly rose through the ranks, commanding various units in major campaigns such as the Battle of France, the Balkans Campaign, and Operation Barbarossa. Harmel received multiple prestigious awards for his military achievements, including the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. His career was marked by significant battles on both the Western and Eastern Fronts, culminating in his surrender to Allied forces in Austria.

Maximilian von Weichs was a German Generalfeldmarschall in the Wehrmacht during World War II. He joined the Bavarian cavalry in 1900 and fought in World War I. During WWII, he commanded the XIII Corps in the invasion of Poland, the 2nd Army in the invasions of France, Yugoslavia, and the Soviet Union, and Army Group B during Case Blue in southern Russia. In 1944, he led Army Group F in the Balkans during the German retreat. Weichs was implicated in war crimes in the Balkans during the Nuremberg Trials.

Christian Wirth was a German SS officer and Holocaust perpetrator known for his brutal behavior. He played a key role in the extermination of Jewish people in Poland under Operation Reinhard, earning nicknames like Christian the Cruel and The Wild Christian. Wirth was involved in the Action T4 program, which targeted individuals with disabilities for murder, and later oversaw the development and operation of extermination camps for mass killings. He eventually became Inspector of all the Reinhard Camps before being killed by Yugoslav Partisans.

Walther von Reichenau was a German Generalfeldmarschall in the Heer of Nazi Germany during World War II. He gained notoriety for his command of the 6th Army during the invasions of Belgium, France, and the Soviet Union. Reichenau led his troops deep into the USSR as part of Army Group South during Operation Barbarossa. He issued the Severity Order, encouraging the murder of Jewish civilians on the Eastern Front and collaborated with the SS Einsatzgruppen in carrying out massacres and other crimes against humanity.

Julius Schreck was an early senior Nazi official and close confidant of Adolf Hitler. He served in World War I, joined right-wing paramilitary units, and became a founding member of the Sturmabteilung (SA). In 1925, Schreck became the first leader of the Schutzstaffel (SS) and later served as a chauffeur for Hitler. He played a key role in the development of the SA and SS before his untimely death in 1936 due to meningitis, for which Hitler gave him a state funeral.

Erich Topp was a notable German U-boat commander during World War II, known for his successful naval career. He received prestigious awards such as the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. Topp demonstrated his skill by sinking 35 enemy ships, totaling 197,460 gross register tons. Post-war, he continued his service in the Federal German Navy, achieving the rank of Konteradmiral. Topp's expertise also led him to serve in NATO, highlighting his significant contributions to naval operations and defense strategies.

August, Count Neidhardt von Gneisenau was a Prussian field marshal known for his significant contributions to the reform of the Prussian military and his leadership during the War of Liberation. He played a key role in modernizing the Prussian army, implementing new tactics and strategies that proved crucial in various battles. Gneisenau's military expertise, tactical innovations, and strategic planning were instrumental in the success of the Prussian forces during his time, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and influential military leader.

Heinz Linge was a German SS officer who served as Adolf Hitler's valet during World War II. He was present in the Führerbunker when Hitler committed suicide in 1945, ending his ten-year service to the dictator. Linge was responsible for all aspects of Hitler's household and portrayed him affectionately in his memoir. Despite Hitler being described as unpredictable and demanding, Linge remained loyal and close to historical events. After the war, he spent ten years in Soviet captivity.

Heinrich Lehmann-Willenbrock was a distinguished submarine commander in the Kriegsmarine of Nazi Germany during World War II, leading four U-boats, notably U-96, a Type VIIC U-boat. His command of U-96 gained fame through a documented patrol by a propaganda company member, leading to widespread recognition. Post-war, he transitioned to a career as a merchant ship captain, notably serving as the first captain of Germany's nuclear freighter Otto Hahn. Lehmann-Willenbrock's legacy was further immortalized through the mini-series and film "Das Boot."

Gordon Gollob was an Austrian fighter pilot and fighter ace during World War II, credited with 150 enemy aircraft shot down in over 340 combat missions. He served in various fighter wings and commands, achieving multiple victories on both the Eastern and Western Fronts. Gollob was recognized with several prestigious military decorations for his aerial accomplishments. Post-war, he held leadership positions in the German Luftwaffe and later in the political arena in Austria, before transitioning to a sales role in a company.

Werner Goldberg, a German of half Jewish ancestry, gained recognition during World War II when his image was featured in the Berliner Tageblatt as "The Ideal German Soldier." This led to his appearance in recruitment posters and propaganda for the Wehrmacht. Despite serving briefly as a soldier, Goldberg's portrayal had a significant impact on the perception of military service in Nazi Germany. His image symbolized the complexities and contradictions present in the policies and propaganda of the time.

Adolf Heusinger was a prominent German military officer who served in various capacities throughout his career. He began as a volunteer in the German Army during World War I and later transitioned to become a professional soldier. He held key positions within the general staff of the German Army during the Wehrmacht era, including serving as Operations Chief and briefly as acting Chief of the General Staff. He faced accusations related to the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler but was cleared. He later became a general for West Germany and served as the head of the West German military and Chairman of the NATO Military Committee.

Josef "Pips" Priller was a German military aviator and wing commander in the Luftwaffe during WWII. He was a skilled fighter ace with 101 enemy aircraft shot down in 307 combat missions. Priller joined the military in 1935, transferring to the Luftwaffe in 1936. He served in various fighter wings, achieving notable victories during the Battle of Britain. Priller led successful missions during key WWII events, earning prestigious awards for his exceptional leadership and combat skills. Post-war, he managed a family brewery business before passing away in 1961.

Georg Konrad Morgen was an SS judge and lawyer who investigated crimes in Nazi concentration camps, reaching the rank of SS-Sturmbannführer. Known as a "Blutrichter" or 'blood judge', he had the authority to issue death penalties. Post-war, Morgen testified at anti-Nazi trials and continued his legal career in Frankfurt. He earned the nickname 'The Bloodhound Judge' for his unwavering pursuit of justice. His professional life was marked by his commitment to uncovering crimes and holding perpetrators accountable within the Nazi regime.

Johannes 'Hans' Baur was a skilled aviator who began his career as a flying ace in World War I. He later became known as Adolf Hitler's personal pilot during the political campaigns of the early 1930s and led the Reichsregierung squadron. Following the end of World War II in Europe, Baur was captured by the Soviet Union and spent ten years in imprisonment. He continued to be recognized for his contributions to aviation until his passing in 1993.

Oskar von Hindenburg was a German Generalleutnant who served as the son and aide-de-camp to Generalfeldmarschall and Reich President Paul von Hindenburg. He played a significant role in the political landscape of Germany by influencing the appointment of Adolf Hitler as German chancellor in January 1933. Throughout his professional career, Oskar von Hindenburg demonstrated strategic acumen and leadership skills, contributing to key decisions and developments within the German military and political spheres during a critical period in history.

Helmut Lent was a German night-fighter ace in World War II, known for shooting down 110 aircraft, with 102 of them being at night. He began his career in the Luftwaffe in 1936 and was assigned to various squadrons, showcasing his skills during the invasion of Poland and Norway. Lent's achievements led to regular promotions and awards, culminating in him becoming the first night fighter pilot to claim 100 nocturnal victories. Tragically, his career ended when he succumbed to injuries from a plane crash in 1944.

Kurt Hubert Franz was an SS officer who served as a commander at the Treblinka extermination camp during the Holocaust. He played a significant role in the genocide that took place there, being responsible for the suffering and deaths of countless victims. Franz was sentenced to life in prison following the Treblinka Trials in 1965, where the verdict highlighted his direct involvement in the atrocities committed at the camp. Despite being released in 1993, his actions continue to be remembered as part of one of history's darkest chapters.

Wilhelm List was a German Generalfeldmarschall during World War II, known for commanding various armies in key military campaigns. He led the 14th Army in the invasion of Poland and the 12th Army in the invasions of France, Yugoslavia, and Greece. In 1941, List oversaw the German forces in Southeast Europe, occupying Greece and Yugoslavia. During Case Blue in 1942, he commanded Army Group A, focusing on the offensive towards the Caucasus and Baku. Post-war, List was convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity, serving a life sentence before his early release for health reasons.

Rudolf Lange was a German SS-Standartenführer and police official known for his role during the Nazi era. He served in various key positions such as Einsatzgruppe A and as a commander of SiPo and SD forces in Riga, Latvia. A participant in the Wannsee Conference, Lange played a significant role in planning and implementing the genocide of Latvia's Jewish population during the Holocaust. His career culminated in his death at the Battle of Poznań in the final stages of World War II.

Albert Battel was a German Army lieutenant and lawyer known for his courageous resistance against the Nazi plans to liquidate the Przemyśl Jewish ghetto during World War II. His professional life exemplified bravery and moral integrity as he defied orders to protect the lives of innocent civilians. Battel's actions showcased his commitment to justice and humanity, earning him recognition as Righteous Among the Nations in 1981. His legacy as a principled individual who stood up against injustice continues to inspire others to this day.

Dietrich von Saucken was a German general who served during World War II, commanding the 2nd Army and Army East Prussia. Known for his military leadership, he chose to surrender to the Red Army in 1945 instead of escaping by air. Saucken's notable achievement was being the last officer to receive the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds, the highest military decoration in Nazi Germany. His decision to surrender demonstrated his commitment to honor and duty in the face of defeat.

Josef Jakobs was a German spy during the Second World War who parachuted into the United Kingdom, where he was captured. Convicted of espionage under the Treachery Act 1940, he became the last person to be executed at the Tower of London. Jakobs was sentenced to death and executed by a military firing squad. His case is notable for being the only execution at the Tower of London during the war, and for the unique circumstances surrounding his capture and sentence.

Emil Otto Rasch was a prominent German Nazi official and key figure in the Holocaust, serving as the commander of Einsatzgruppe C in northern and central Ukraine until October 1941. He played a significant role in orchestrating the systematic mass murder of Jews and other victims during World War II. Rasch faced indictments for war crimes at the Einsatzgruppen trial post-war, with proceedings later discontinued due to medical reasons. His involvement in these atrocities marked a dark chapter in history, highlighting the horrors of the Holocaust.

Heinz Brandt was a German officer who served as an aide to General Adolf Heusinger during World War II. He played a crucial role in potentially saving Adolf Hitler's life during the 20 July plot by moving the bomb planted by Claus von Stauffenberg. Brandt's actions demonstrated his dedication to his duties and his willingness to put himself in harm's way for his superiors. His professional life was marked by his service in a key position within the operations unit of the General Staff.

Johanna Langefeld was a Nazi German guard and supervisor at three concentration camps: Lichtenburg, Ravensbrück, and Auschwitz. She played a significant role in the operations of these camps during the Holocaust. Langefeld's actions as a guard contributed to the suffering and deaths of countless prisoners under her watch. Despite being arrested and imprisoned for her involvement in the Holocaust, she managed to escape custody and avoid facing trial for her crimes.

Otto Kumm was a commanding figure in the Waffen-SS during World War II, leading two divisions and earning prestigious military awards. However, his post-war involvement with HIAG, a group advocating for former Waffen-SS members, stirred controversy due to the organization's revisionist stance and the SS's association with war crimes. Kumm's career thus reflects a complex mix of military leadership, post-war activism, and entanglement with the controversial history of the Waffen-SS.

Otto Graf Lambsdorff was a German politician affiliated with the Free Democratic Party (FDP), serving as the German Federal Minister of Economics from 1977 to 1984. During his tenure, he implemented market-oriented economic policies and played a significant role in shaping Germany's economic landscape. However, his career was marred by corruption allegations, leading to his resignation in 1984. Despite this controversy, Lambsdorff's contributions to economic policy and his impact on Germany's economy during his time as Minister of Economics are still recognized.

Kurt Zeitzler was a Chief of the Army General Staff in the Wehrmacht of Nazi Germany during World War II. He served as a staff officer in various capacities before being selected by Hitler as Chief of the Army General Staff in 1942. Zeitzler played a key role in the decision to launch Operation Citadel in early 1943 but later lost faith in Hitler's judgement. He resigned in 1944 after a nervous breakdown, known for his efficiency in managing large mobile formations.

Maximilian von Montgelas was a Bavarian statesman known for his significant contributions to administrative and legal reforms, as well as his role in modernizing Bavaria during the early 19th century. He served as a key advisor to the rulers of Bavaria, implementing policies that aimed at promoting economic growth, education, and cultural development. Montgelas played a crucial role in centralizing the Bavarian government, restructuring the legal system, and promoting secularization and rationalization in governance.

Albrecht von Roon was a Prussian soldier and statesman known for his influential role as Minister of War from 1859 to 1873. Alongside Bismarck and Moltke, he played a crucial part in Prussia's government during the 1860s, overseeing successful wars that led to German unification. He was a moderate conservative and advocate of executive monarchy, dedicated to modernizing the army and enhancing its efficiency. Roon's professional life was characterized by his strategic leadership and commitment to strengthening Prussia's position on the European stage.

Hans von Luck was a German officer in the Wehrmacht during World War II. He served with distinction in the 7th Panzer Division and later with the 21st Panzer Division. Von Luck's military career was marked by his leadership skills and strategic acumen on the battlefield. His experiences and insights from the war are captured in his book "Panzer Commander," providing valuable perspectives on armored warfare and the challenges faced by German forces during WWII.

Oscar-Heinrich "Pritzl" Bär was a German Luftwaffe flying ace who served throughout World War II in Europe. He flew over one thousand combat missions in the Western, Eastern, and Mediterranean theatres. Bär claimed to have shot down 228 enemy aircraft and was credited with 208 aerial victories, including 16 in a Messerschmitt Me 262 jet fighter. He joined the Reichswehr in 1934, transferred to the Luftwaffe in 1935, and was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross for his achievements during the war.