Gerd Schmückle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Gerd Schmückle
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| Born | 1 December 1917 Stuttgart, Kingdom of Württemberg, German Empire |
| Died | 28 May 2013 (aged 95) Munich, Germany |
| Allegiance |
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| Service/ |
 German Army West Germany |
| Years of service | 1936–45 1956–80 |
| Rank | General |
| Unit | 7th Panzer Division 12th Panzer Division I. Corps |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
Gerd Schmückle (born December 1, 1917 – died May 28, 2013) was an important German four-star general. He played a big role in both World War II and the later German army. He also held a very high position in NATO, a group of countries working together for defense.
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
Gerd Schmückle was born in Stuttgart, Germany. He joined the German army in 1936. This was before World War II began.
World War II Experience
During World War II, Schmückle served in the 7th Panzer Division. This division was led by the famous General Erwin Rommel. Schmückle fought in the Battle of France, which was a major part of the war.
Later, his division fought on the Eastern Front against the Soviet Union. This was a very tough part of the war. Schmückle was wounded six times during these battles. In 1944, he was promoted to the German General Staff. This meant he became a major and led an artillery battalion.
Life After the War
After Germany surrendered in 1945, World War II ended. Gerd Schmückle left the army. He then started a new life. He ran a farm in Bavaria, a region in Germany. He also worked as a journalist, writing for newspapers or magazines.
Joining the Bundeswehr
In 1956, Germany formed a new army called the Bundeswehr. Gerd Schmückle decided to rejoin the military. He quickly rose through the ranks. By 1978, he was promoted to the rank of general.
High NATO Position
From 1978 to 1980, General Schmückle held a very important job. He was the Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe. This means he was one of the top leaders in NATO. He was the first German person to ever hold this high position.
Books by Gerd Schmückle
Gerd Schmückle also wrote several books. These books shared his thoughts and experiences.
- Kommiß a. D. Kritische Gänge durch die Kasernen. (1971)
- Ohne Pauken und Trompeten. Erinnerungen an Krieg und Frieden. (1982)
- Das Schwert am seidenen Faden. Krisenmanagement in Europa. (1984)
