German Forces

Afrika Korps generals

Bundesarchiv**

Major General Karl Böttcher (25 October 1889 – 21 October 1973) with general Rommel (right) in North Africa. Böttcher served in the Deutsches Afrikakorps under Erwin Rommel. Rommel innovated by creating an independent command for his artillery, allowing them to be used in a concentrated manner. He placed Böttcher in command. As such it became a very effective means for adding punch to the Afrika Korps' attack. Later, he was made commander of the 21st Panzer Division. Was recipient of the Knight's Cross and the Iron Cross. Böttcher was captured by the Western Allies in 1945 and was held until 1947.