Field Marshal Erwin (Johannes Eugen) Rommel: The Desert Fox

Der Wustenfuchs

(November 15, 1891 - October 14, 1944)

Back   The 54mm soldier. Top quality painting. Price is $472.

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Erwin Rommel became known as the Desert Fox.

1910: at 19, Rommel joined the 124th Infantry Regiment of the German army. Rommel`s career started as an officer cadet.

During World War I, he served in Romania, France and Italy. After the war Rommel started teaching in the military academies. He wrote a book titled "Infantry Attacks".

Rommel was promoted to Lt. General. Rommel was sent to Africa. Rommel was placed in command of the Afrika Korps. Western Africa was a challenge for Rommel. Temperatures could reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Rommel conducted frequent reconnaissance trips on the enemy. Rommel was an expert in surprise attacks. Rommel found it difficult dealing with the Italian army. His request for more supplies were not heeded by Hitler. Hitler ordered Rommel to take Cairo.

Rommel pushed the British further than Cairo. Germany crowned Rommel the "people's marshal". Rommel's popularity and success was not highly regarded by Hitler.

Rommel then suffered a series of battlefield failures and was ordered back to Germany. Hitler assigned him to the defense of northern France. Rommel sensed that Germany had already lost the war. Rommel was asked to replace Hitler as the leader.

Rommel was involved in a serious car accident which forced him back home to Germany. The plot to assassinate Hitler became known. Rommel never knew of the assassination attempt, but was implicated. Hitler sent high-ranking officers to Rommel's bedside. They handed him a vial of poison. Rommel was told to commit suicide and avoid the German gallows. In turn, Hitler promised to bury Rommel with full military honors. Rommel took the poison and died in 1944. Hitler kept his promise and Rommel was buried with honor.