www.gd-uk.org

Well, thought I'd start a little debate. There were a number of talented high rank German officers of WW2. Who do you think was the best?

The criteria is yours, just state your case.

I nominate Erich von Manstein as I believe he was the most balanced in terms of both his attacking and defensive capabilities.

His CV includes Poland and his advocacy of concentration of force within that campaign.

Architect of the advance through the Ardennes for the France offensive.

The taking of Sevastapol.

The third battle for Kharkov - a brilliant counter attack into the flank of the extended Soviet forces. A great example of elastic defence.

The Cherkassy pocket battle and withdrawal against overwhelming odds.

He was constantly at odds with Hitler, being removed from his position in 1944. A waste of military talent that the German army could ill afford.

In summary, von Manstein was a true all rounder, who was successful at winning in a variety of situations. He gets my vote.

I would probably agree, however in terms of both tactical abilities and persona I'd have to say I prefer Rommel, but Manstein was certainly a master technician and is often, in my opinion, overlooked.

That said, I've always had a lot of respect for Guderian (although he was never a Field Marshall) as both a tactician and technological thinker. Remember he was largely responsible for the creation of modern, mechanised armoured warfare, which used both initiative and speed. He had to redevelop the German armed forces whilst struggling against the old thinkers (normally aristocratic cavalrymen).

Guderian, along with Albert Speer, also defied Hitler's orders in 1945 to basically destroy much of Germany whilst in retreat/occupation. They knew that the end of the war was close at hand and did not wish to see Germany crippled structurally and economically after a war which had already taken a considerable toll on the country. In a society that was so heavily based on conformity, in my mind to stand out and say "actually no, we're not going to do that" takes a lot of strength.

Have you ever read Achtung Panzer?

Best,
Wolfie

Hi Wolfie

No I haven't read that book and should do. Will add this to my list of reading!

Have rightfully added Guderian to the list.

So who's been voting on here and not explaining why? Don't be shy!

It was me! Rommel got my vote. He may not have been an all-rounder, but he had flair and style in the attack and was the ideal Blitzkrieg commander. In defence, I don't think he was a patch on Kesselring, but in the early offensive years of the war he was in his element.

Ahhhh, it was you! Thanks for the post, and your thoughts.

That leaves another vote for Manstein then that someone hasn't posted about. Wonder who?

See you Saturday!