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I have just been watching the old movie 'Desert Fox', the story of Rommel and his execution during WW2. I have seen the movie before, but it never occurred to me that Rommel had a son, who would have lived on.

I just looked him up, and was quite sad to learn that he was there when his father was led out of the house to his death. Rommel as most people know was probably best known for his professionalism in his role as a soldier, and always abided by the 'rules', even ensuring that all POW's were treated well. His background support for the rebels against the Hitler regime was what led to his death, despite his service to his country.

It was interesting to see that Manfred died on 9 Nov this year, and that he went on to become Mayor of Stuttgart after the war. He continued his fathers traditions, fought for workers to be treated fairly, and became highly respected in his home city. He also became firm friends with Montgomery's son, and Eisenhower's.

Quite a poignant tale, and to be the son of Rommel, who has probably earned a place in history as the 'decent soldier' must have been a matter of some pride to him.

Hi, Thanks for the update...I did know that he had a son but not what happened to him......nice that he became a respected man...... ... Born on 24 December 1928...... WOWwww.....We forget how time passes...and how long ago these 'things' were.........

If Rommel had so much courage and decency then why did he still fight for the Nazis? He was a brilliant tank commander but don't forget what he truly did.
He ordered the killing of thousands of people, most of them British. I see no glory in what Rommel did.

wibblywobbly wrote:I have just been watching the old movie 'Desert Fox', the story of Rommel and his execution during WW2. I have seen the movie before, but it never occurred to me that Rommel had a son, who would have lived on.

I just looked him up, and was quite sad to learn that he was there when his father was led out of the house to his death. Rommel as most people know was probably best known for his professionalism in his role as a soldier, and always abided by the 'rules', even ensuring that all POW's were treated well. His background support for the rebels against the Hitler regime was what led to his death, despite his service to his country.

It was interesting to see that Manfred died on 9 Nov this year, and that he went on to become Mayor of Stuttgart after the war. He continued his fathers traditions, fought for workers to be treated fairly, and became highly respected in his home city. He also became firm friends with Montgomery's son, and Eisenhower's.

Quite a poignant tale, and to be the son of Rommel, who has probably earned a place in history as the 'decent soldier' must have been a matter of some pride to him.

Interesting research Wibbly...I tend to agree with Freakydude.... but with that said... I will add that it was war...and before Rommel was taken from the front lines.... he was a great leader and general..who yes ... followed what he thought was right...like any good soldier in his position should...and yes.. he was executed for treason...as he found the Nazi way was not the right way

So it's good to find his son followed his father's footsteps...in a more peaceful time... perhaps what his father had originally envisioned when he served

good post... as it's a good thing no matter what view is taken ...to learn something

ALPHA

I guess Rommel's life poses the old question of 'can a moral man maintain his moral code in an immoral world'.
My late father in law fought with the 8th army in North Africa and later in Italy. He had a lot of respect for Rommel as he did for the German army in Africa. He fought them and ultimately played some small part in their defeat but at the same time respected them. Personally I don't know enough about Rommel the man or the pressures that that were put on him to make any kind of judgement of his actions or beliefs.

cupoftea wrote:I guess Rommel's life poses the old question of 'can a moral man maintain his moral code in an immoral world'.
My late father in law fought with the 8th army in North Africa and later in Italy. He had a lot of respect for Rommel as he did for the German army in Africa. He fought them and ultimately played some small part in their defeat but at the same time respected them. Personally I don't know enough about Rommel the man or the pressures that that were put on him to make any kind of judgement of his actions or beliefs.

Well stated Cupoftea
I too feel Rommel had the old school way of performing his duties... perhaps some of the influences of the war before the war of wars...when there was admiration for fellow soldiers....like that of the history of the Red Baron... who's demise was honored by both allies and foes

Wars come and go... unfortunately it's part of the human nature ... not a good part... but it's there...But in almost every instance there are figures who left impressions... good or bad... they are still lessons to learn from...Rommel just happens to be one of those figures

Happy Holidays CupofTea

ALPHA