06/22/09

Erich von Manstein

24 November, 1887–10 June, 1973

Manstein was a German field marshal in World War II. He would see service during the invasion of Poland, the invasion of France, and Operation Barbarossa (Russia).

Invasion of Poland

Manstein planned the invasion of Poland and it was a success.

Invasion of France

Manstein planned a modified version of “case yellow” which was having panzers go through the Ardennes, which allies at the time thought armor could not get through the area. A modified version was chosen by Hitler. It turned out to be a success and Manstein was rewarded by a promotion and rewarded the knights cross.

Russia

He would lead German forces in Crimea and the recapture of Kerch, the battle Sevastopol, Leningrad, to free sixth army in Stalingrad (but failed), operation Kharkov, operation citadel, and the Dnieper campaign.

Mainstien was dismissed because he argued with Hitler tactics.

Mainstein died on June 10, 1973.

 A Documentary about him during the war is available click on Erich Von Manstein