_The Desert Fox_ The Story of Rommel_
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Gilroy 1
Olivia M. Gilroy
November 10, 2023
Professor Gregory J.W. Urwin
Hist 2812 World War 2
"The Desert Fox:
A Comprehensive Exploration of Erwin Rommel's Life,
Military Prowess, and Complex Legacy
in the North African Campaign during World War II"
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"The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel (1951)" begins by detailing Erwin Rommel's early life in
Heidenheim, Wuerttemberg, in Imperial Germany. Born in 1891 to a teacher and headmaster,
Erwin's childhood was marked by a strict father and a secure, comfortable upbringing. "Erwin’s
father was a strict parent, with a walrus mustache and slicked-down hair parted in the middle.
The thing Erwin remembered most about him was that he was always asking educational
questions, which annoyed his son, who had little enthusiasm for academics." (Mitcham 9)
Despite his initial disinterest in academics, Erwin eventually woke up during his teenage years,
adopting a physical fitness program and developing characteristics typical of a Swabian.
The narrative follows Erwin's decision to become a soldier, overcoming initial reluctance from
his father. "Rommel decided to become a soldier. At first, his father was not convinced this was
the wisest choice. There was no military tradition in the family except in the case of Professor
Rommel himself, who had been a reserve lieutenant of artillery. But when he saw that his son’s
mind was made up, he supported him and wrote him a letter of recommendation.” (Mitcham 14)
Despite rejection from the engineer and artillery branches, he was accepted into the infantry. His
life takes a romantic turn as he falls in love with Walburga Stemmer and later meets Lucie Maria
Mollin. The love triangle takes a dramatic turn when Walburga becomes pregnant, leading Erwin
to break off the relationship, eventually marrying Lucie.
The outbreak of World War I finds Erwin serving on the Western Front, separated from his family.
The narrative ends with Rommel's contemplation on the uncertainty of war and the possibility of
not seeing his family again. "Rommel was eventually attached to the 49th Field Artillery
Regiment at Ulm to cross-train in that branch. Ironically, his commander was the very officer
who had rejected his application to join the artillery in 1910.” (Mitcham 19)
The Great War
Erwin Rommel's journey from a middle-class Swabian upbringing to a distinguished military
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career began in 1910 when he joined the infantry. His adolescence, marked by a commitment to
physical fitness and typical Swabian traits, set the foundation for his later endeavors. Despite
initial reservations from his father, Rommel's dedication to a military path remained steadfast,
leading to significant personal and professional developments.
In World War I, Rommel's transformation into a formidable warrior unfolded on the battlefield.
Displaying remarkable boldness and daring in skirmishes, he earned recognition for his
leadership and combat skills. Desmond Young aptly described him as "the perfect fighting
animal: cold, cunning, ruthless, untiring, quick of decision, incredibly brave." This period of
conflict marked a pivotal turn in Rommel's career, shaping his reputation for daring and strategic
brilliance (Mitcham 24).
Rommel's distinctive behavior on the battlefield further set him apart. His chivalrous acts, such
as caring for wounded enemies and a strong aversion to mistreating prisoners, showcased a
sense of honor amidst the chaos of war. The Battle of Verdun and the First Battle of Argonne
were critical moments that transformed Rommel into a respected and decorated military figure.
"In a man-to-man fight, the winner is he who has one more round in his magazine," reflected
Rommel, encapsulating the intensity and unpredictability of the battlefield (Mitcham 27). The
narrative culminated in his involvement in the Alps and the Italian Front in 1916-1918. Rommel's
strategic brilliance, highlighted by the capture of Mount Matajur, earned him the prestigious
Pour le Merite medal.
Lieutenant Theodor Werner remarked, "Anybody who once came under the spell of his
personality turned into a real soldier," emphasizing Rommel's influential leadership. His military
career extended beyond frontline battles to staff positions and Landwehr units until Germany's
capitulation in 1918. Throughout, Rommel's dedication to the military, described by a colleague
as being "the body and soul of war," remained unwavering. As he crossed the Rhine at the
outbreak of World War I, Rommel's contemplation reflected the profound personal and historical
impact of his military journey: "Will I ever see my mother and family again?" (Mitcham 32)
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The Reichswehr Years
The narrative begins by portraying Erwin Rommel's personal life, emphasizing his ability to find
solace and stability amid the tumultuous aftermath of World War I. The contrast with the "Lost
Generation" underscores Rommel's commitment to family, describing his harmonious marriage
to Lucie and their shared activities, making their life seemingly uneventful yet content.
The focus then shifts to Rommel's military career, detailing his experiences in the Reichsheer
and the challenges posed by the Treaty of Versailles. The text explores his adaptability to
peacetime duties, showcasing Rommel's leadership and tactical skills. His encounters with
undisciplined Red sailors and revolutionary unrest demonstrate his ability to navigate through
challenging situations.
The narrative delves into Rommel's initial support for the Nazis and his evolving relationship
with key figures in the regime. Despite early admiration for Hitler's economic initiatives, Rommel
becomes disillusioned with the SA's excesses and Hitler's authoritarian tendencies. The text
paints a complex picture of Rommel's political stance and his interactions with the Nazi
hierarchy.
Rommel's military prowess comes to the forefront during the Sudetenland Crisis and the
occupation of Czechoslovakia. His strategic insights and clashes with high-ranking Nazis
highlight his dedication to military principles. The narrative concludes with Rommel's pivotal role
in the invasion of Poland and his subsequent command of the 7th Panzer Division, marking a
crucial juncture in his military career.
Blitzkrieg in France
In 1939, Erwin Rommel assumed command of the 7th Panzer Division, a unit with subpar tanks,
including Czech T-38s. Despite these limitations, Rommel, known for his discipline and
impatience with inefficiency, transformed the division through intensive training and improved
combat efficiency. The division played a crucial role in the German invasion of France in 1940,
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executing the Manstein Plan, which involved a diversionary attack in the Low Countries followed
by a decisive panzer thrust through the Ardennes.
Rommel's division faced challenging river crossings and encountered resistance from French
and British forces. Despite setbacks, Rommel displayed tactical brilliance, personally leading
attacks and making strategic decisions that contributed to the success of the German
campaign. The 7th Panzer Division achieved notable victories, with Rommel capturing key
locations and thousands of prisoners. However, the campaign also revealed logistical
challenges, as Rommel's division faced fuel shortages and logistical issues, which were partially
addressed through collaboration with the SS Totenkopf Division.
One significant engagement occurred on May 21, 1940, when Rommel's division faced a
determined Allied counterattack. Rommel, displaying courage and strategic acumen, repelled
the attack, but the 7th Panzer Division suffered considerable casualties. The campaign
continued with Rommel capturing French ports and achieving rapid advancements, ultimately
leading to the surrender of France. Despite casualties and tank losses, the 7th Panzer Division's
impact on the outcome of the campaign was substantial.
Rout of the Romans
Benito Mussolini, observing Adolf Hitler's territorial gains, felt compelled to expedite Italy's entry
into World War II. Mussolini's declaration of war in 1940 exposed Italy's unpreparedness for a
major European conflict. Despite warnings from Marshal Badoglio about shortages and
inadequacies in the Italian armed forces, Mussolini, dismissively retorting, asserted that
historical success did not hinge on material possessions, famously stating, “History cannot be
reckoned by the number of shirts!”
The Italian Army's deficiencies became apparent in North Africa, where Marshal Graziani, known
for his brutality, struggled to counter the British forces. General O'Connor's successful offensive
in December 1940 highlighted Italy's vulnerabilities, leading to the rapid collapse of the Italian
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10th Army. Despite numerical superiority, Italy faced defeat, exposing the shortcomings of
Mussolini's military strategies.
Hitler's proposal to send panzer troops to Libya was rejected, and the Italian Navy suffered a
blow in a surprise British attack. General Thoma's accurate assessment of the supply problem in
North Africa was dismissed by Hitler and Mussolini. The British, under General Wavell,
capitalized on Italy's weaknesses, achieving significant victories that severely damaged Italian
morale. Hitler responded by sending the Afrika Korps, led by Lieutenant General Erwin Rommel,
to counter the British threat in North Africa.
The Rise of the Afrika Corps
As Mussolini's colonial empire crumbled, Rommel found himself in France, assigned to relatively
undemanding military occupation duties. His time was spent hunting and writing a history of the
7th Panzer Division. However, Rommel faced bureaucratic obstacles, particularly from Colonel
General Franz Halder, who blocked the publication of Rommel's self-serving account. Despite
these hindrances, Rommel's flair for public relations emerged as he befriended Joseph
Goebbels, received an expensive camera, and participated in propaganda efforts, including
directing a film.
While leisure activities filled Rommel's days, tensions surfaced with his chief operations officer,
Major Otto Heidkaemper. The Rommel-Heidkaemper partnership, initially effective in Belgium
and France, faced challenges in the 25th Panzer Regiment's drive to Arras and Lille. Mutual
blame and disagreements led to friction between the two, prompting their separation after
France surrendered. Rommel, well-known and popular back home, maintained contact with his
family, but the war disrupted his plans for Christmas. Despite his popularity, Rommel remained
mindful of his military duties.
Promoted to Generalleutnant and eager for leave, Rommel received unexpected orders in
February 1941. As British tanks closed in on Benghazi, he met with Field Marshal Walter von
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Brauchitsch, learning about the formation of the Afrika Korps to be sent to Tripoli. Rommel, not
taking the instructions seriously, especially the part about subordination to the Italians, faced a
new chapter as he prepared to lead the Afrika Korps in North Africa.
In early February, General Rommel secretly met with Hitler in Rome to discuss the defense of
Tripolitania. Rommel proposed a shift in Axis concentration to the east of Tripoli, gaining
approval from the Italians. Upon learning of the fall of Benghazi, Rommel urgently arrived in
Africa on February 12, finding the Italian forces in low morale. Despite the precarious situation,
Rommel initiated the formation of the Deutsches Afrika-Korps (DAK) and employed deceptive
tactics like dummy tanks to deter Allied action.
Rommel's arrival significantly improved the situation, and the first skirmish with the Western
Desert Force occurred on February 24. As the Afrika Korps grew stronger, Rommel faced
internal tensions with German commanders who distrusted him. Despite the conflict, Rommel
pressed forward with his plans, directing the DAK's movement to gain valuable experience in
desert warfare. By March 11, the Germans' strength increased, but Rommel faced resistance
from Brauchitsch and Halder, who opposed launching an offensive.
Undeterred, Rommel, unaware of British intelligence infiltrating Italian command, prepared for
an offensive. On March 31, the German offensive, known as Rommel's First Cyrenaican
Campaign, began. Despite initial Allied success, Rommel exploited their mistakes, leading to the
capture of Mechili and the disintegration of the 2nd Armoured Division. Rommel's unorthodox
leadership and strategic decisions, including disobeying orders, contributed to his success, but
the formidable fortress of Tobruk remained the last obstacle to the complete destruction of the
British Empire in North Africa.
Tobruk
Erwin Rommel's pursuit of Tobruk during World War II showcased the strategic importance of
the fortress as a key port between Tunis and Alexandria. Capturing Tobruk was crucial for
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Rommel, as it would provide a forward base for invading Egypt and secure a shorter supply line.
The well-fortified defenses of Tobruk, established by the Italians during their occupation of
Libya, presented a formidable challenge. Despite the reinforcements pouring into Tobruk,
Rommel remained determined to overcome this obstacle and devised multiple attacks from
different directions, emphasizing the significance of the fortress in the North African campaign.
The difficulties in capturing Tobruk became evident in the clashes between Rommel's forces
and the resilient Australian defenders. General von Prittwitz's death added a layer of complexity,
revealing the unpredictability of warfare. Rommel's frustration grew as logistical issues and
slow progress hindered his initial attacks. The successful encirclement of Tobruk marked a
turning point, forcing the fortress to rely solely on sea supply routes. Rommel's strategic vision
emphasized the importance of Tobruk's capture, recognizing the impact it would have on the
overall maneuverability of Axis forces in North Africa.
The subsequent assaults on Tobruk highlighted the tenacity of the defenders, who skillfully
employed anti-tank ditches and heavily fortified positions. Lieutenant Colonel Ponath's machine
gun battalion faced significant losses, exemplifying the challenges Rommel's forces
encountered. The surrender of the 8th Machine Gun Battalion underscored the resilience of
Tobruk's defenders and the difficulties in breaching the fortress. Rommel's frustration with his
officers reflected the intense pressure and high stakes of the North African campaign, where
each decision carried significant consequences for the course of the war.
Rommel's persistence and strategic acumen defined his leadership during the North African
campaign, as he navigated challenges ranging from mechanical issues with Italian forces to
political interference from OKH. The German-Italian alliance faced strain, evident in the Axis
struggles during the attack on Ras el Madauer. The episode of Italian equipment woes became
a source of humor among German troops, highlighting the difficulties faced by the Allies.
Rommel's insistence on loyalty and efficiency led to the removal of commanders Streich and
Olbricht, reflecting the high standards he set for his officers in the face of adversity.
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The complex political dynamics between Rommel and OKH added another layer of difficulty to
the North African Front. Rommel's commitment to removing officers he perceived as disloyal,
despite protests from OKH, showcased his determination to control the narrative and command
structure in the theater of war. The arrival of Italian non-motorized divisions as reinforcements
indicated the strategic challenges Rommel faced in obtaining additional German divisions.
Despite political setbacks and ongoing power struggles, Rommel's dedication to the cause and
innovative tactics persisted, laying the groundwork for future operations.
The failed offensive on April 30 marked a turning point in the North African campaign. Rommel,
though initially strategic, faced setbacks with minefields, fog, and Australian counterattacks.
The Germans lost momentum, and the battle turned against them by May 1, leading to a
prolonged siege of Tobruk. The Italians' behavior during the engagement further strained the
Axis alliance. Rommel's persistent attempts to break the stalemate and his adaptation to the
changing circumstances showcased the complexities and challenges of desert warfare in North
Africa.
"The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel (1951)" provides a comprehensive and captivating
narrative of Erwin Rommel's life, from his early years in Imperial Germany to his pivotal role in
the North African campaign during World War II. The paper delves into Rommel's personal and
military journey, portraying the evolution of a man who would become one of the most
respected and controversial figures in military history. Beginning with his formative years in
Heidenheim, the narrative traces Rommel's decision to pursue a military career, his experiences
in World War I, and his rise through the ranks of the Reichswehr.
The portrayal of Rommel's military prowess, particularly during the Blitzkrieg in France and the
campaign to capture Tobruk, showcases his strategic brilliance and adaptability on the
battlefield. The complexities of Rommel's relationships with the Nazi regime, his encounters
with political figures, and his disillusionment with certain aspects of the Nazi ideology add
depth to the narrative, presenting a nuanced perspective on his character. The paper effectively
captures the challenges, victories, and setbacks faced by Rommel and the Axis forces in North
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Africa, providing readers with a vivid account of the desert warfare.
The inclusion of Rommel's interactions with colleagues, subordinates, and political figures
offers insight into the complexities of military leadership and the intricate web of relationships
that shaped the course of history. Rommel's commitment to loyalty and efficiency, as well as his
persistent efforts to overcome obstacles, emerges as a central theme throughout the narrative.
The portrayal of Rommel's personality, including his chivalrous acts on the battlefield and his
dedication to his family, adds a human dimension to the larger-than-life military figure.
"The Desert Fox" not only serves as a historical account of Erwin Rommel's life but also provides
a nuanced exploration of the challenges faced by military leaders during times of war. The paper
paints a multifaceted picture of Rommel, acknowledging his strengths and flaws, and invites
readers to contemplate the complexities of his character and the historical context in which he
operated. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the paper successfully captures
the essence of Rommel's legacy and his enduring impact on military history.
About the Author:
SAMUEL W. MITCHAM JR.
is a military historian who has written extensively on
the Civil War South, including his book
It Wasn’t About Slavery
. A U.S. Army helicopter pilot in the
Vietnam War and a graduate of the Command and General Staff College, he remained active in the
reserves, qualifying through the rank of major general. A former visiting professor at the U.S. Military
Academy, West Point, he has appeared on the History Channel, CBS, NPR, and the BBC. He lives
with his family in Monroe, Louisiana (Barnes)
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Work Cited
Mitcham, Samuel W.
Desert Fox: The Storied Military Career of Erwin Rommel
. Regnery
History, 2019.
Noble, Barnes &. About the Author.
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/desert-fox-
samuel-w-mitcham/1128935699
. 2023