Dietrich von Choltitz
Early Life and Military Career
Dietrich von Choltitz was born on November 9, 1894, in Schloss Wiese, near Breslau, in the German Empire, which is now part of Poland. He was born into a family with a long military tradition, which influenced his decision to pursue a career in the military. Choltitz attended the Dresden Cadet School and later the Prussian Military Academy, where he received rigorous training that prepared him for a career in the German Army.
Choltitz began his military career in 1914, serving as a lieutenant in the 8th Thuringian Infantry Regiment. During World War I, he saw action on both the Western and Eastern Fronts, gaining valuable combat experience. He was recognized for his leadership and bravery, earning the Iron Cross First and Second Class.
Interwar Period
After the end of World War I, Choltitz remained in the military, joining the Reichswehr, the military organization of the Weimar Republic. During the interwar period, he continued to advance through the ranks, holding various staff and command positions. His career during this time was marked by a focus on modernizing military tactics and strategies, particularly in the use of mechanized units.
Choltitz's experiences during the interwar period were crucial in shaping his approach to warfare. He was a proponent of the Blitzkrieg tactics that would later be employed by the German military during World War II. His understanding of rapid, mechanized warfare made him a valuable asset to the German Army.
World War II
Early Campaigns
With the outbreak of World War II, Choltitz was given command of the 16th Infantry Regiment. He participated in the invasion of Poland in 1939, where his regiment played a significant role in the rapid advance of German forces. His success in Poland earned him a promotion to major general.
In 1940, Choltitz took part in the Battle of France, where his leadership was instrumental in the German victory. He was involved in the planning and execution of several key operations, demonstrating his ability to adapt to the fast-paced nature of modern warfare.
Eastern Front
In 1941, Choltitz was transferred to the Eastern Front, where he commanded the 260th Infantry Division during Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union. The harsh conditions and fierce resistance from Soviet forces tested his leadership skills. Despite the challenges, Choltitz's division achieved several notable successes, including the capture of key strategic positions.
His experiences on the Eastern Front were marked by the brutal realities of warfare, including the harsh winter conditions and the tenacity of Soviet resistance. Choltitz's leadership during this period was characterized by his ability to maintain discipline and morale among his troops.
Defense of Sevastopol
One of Choltitz's most notable achievements during World War II was his role in the Siege of Sevastopol in 1942. As the commander of the 11th Army's LIV Army Corps, he played a crucial role in the successful capture of the heavily fortified city. The siege was one of the longest and most intense battles on the Eastern Front, and Choltitz's leadership was instrumental in the eventual German victory.
The capture of Sevastopol was a significant strategic victory for the German military, and Choltitz's role in the operation earned him the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, one of Germany's highest military honors.
Paris Command
In August 1944, Choltitz was appointed as the military governor of Paris. His appointment came at a critical time, as Allied forces were advancing towards the city. Choltitz was ordered by Adolf Hitler to destroy Paris rather than allow it to fall into Allied hands. However, Choltitz famously defied these orders, choosing to surrender the city intact.
Choltitz's decision to spare Paris has been the subject of much historical debate. Some historians argue that his actions were motivated by a desire to preserve the cultural heritage of the city, while others suggest that he recognized the futility of further destruction in the face of inevitable defeat.
Post-War Life and Legacy
After the surrender of Paris, Choltitz was taken prisoner by Allied forces and held in captivity until 1947. During his time as a prisoner of war, he was interrogated about his role in the war and his decision to spare Paris. Choltitz maintained that his actions were driven by a sense of duty to humanity and a desire to prevent unnecessary suffering.
Following his release, Choltitz returned to Germany, where he lived a relatively quiet life. He wrote a memoir, "Brennt Paris?" ("Is Paris Burning?"), which provided insight into his decision-making process during the war. Choltitz passed away on November 4, 1966, in Baden-Baden, West Germany.
Choltitz's legacy is a complex one. He is often remembered for his role in sparing Paris, but his actions during the earlier stages of the war, particularly on the Eastern Front, have also been scrutinized. His career reflects the complexities and moral ambiguities faced by military leaders during times of conflict.