Gerd von Rundstedt was born on December 12, 1875, in Germany, and he would go on to become one of the most prominent military figures of his time. He came from a prestigious military family, with a long history of serving in the German Army. Rundstedt followed in his family's footsteps and joined the military at a young age, attending the Imperial War Academy in Berlin.
During World War I, Rundstedt held various low-ranking and administrative positions in the German Army. Despite not seeing much action during the war, he gained valuable experience that would serve him well in the future. After the war, Rundstedt continued to rise through the ranks, eventually becoming a Field Marshal in the Imperial German Army.
When World War II broke out, Rundstedt played a significant role in the early Nazi campaigns, including the invasion of France and the Russian campaign. However, his German troops were ultimately defeated during the Battle of Normandy. Despite his loyalty to the German Army, Rundstedt was not a supporter of Hitler's regime.
Several of Rundstedt's fellow German Army officers tried to involve him in their plot to assassinate Hitler. However, Rundstedt resisted these attempts, choosing to focus on his military duties rather than getting involved in political matters. This decision may have saved his life, as many of those involved in the plot were executed.
In 1902, Rundstedt married Luise "Bila" von Goetz, and the couple welcomed their son, Hans Gerd von Rundstedt, the following year. Despite his military success, Rundstedt's later years were marred by allegations of war crimes. Though not as infamous as Nazi leader Adolf Eichmann, Rundstedt was likely guilty of committing atrocities during his time in the German Army.
Rundstedt's advanced age and declining health prevented him from standing trial for his alleged crimes. He passed away on February 24, 1953, leaving behind a complicated legacy as both a respected military leader and a figure associated with the horrors of World War II.
Related links