Hitler Shaking von Manteuffel's Hand - German Armored Forces & Vehicles | Gallery

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Hitler Shaking von Manteuffel's Hand

Von Manteuffel died in Reith im Alpbachtal, Tyrol, Austria. He left the legacy of being the 24th of only 27 holders of the Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds. His ability to leverage the speed of German tanks set a new standard in the doctrines of modern mobile warfare. He published a unit history of the 7th Panzer Division in 1965, a text on modern warfare in 1970, and a photographic history of the 7th Panzer Division in 1978.His leadership abilities were deeply respected even by his former enemies, best demonstrated by a 1968 invitation from United States Military Academy at West Point for him to lecture to its cadets. texag57

This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.ww2incolor.com/gallery/german-armored-forces-vehicles/36596/hitler-shaking-von-manteuffel's-hand
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Manteuffel also appears to have been distinguished by an emphatic dislike of the SS, Gestapo, Security Police, and the Nazi murder machine in general. In a postwar interview, SS-Obergruppenfuhrer Karl Wolff was asked about instances of resistance to "special operations" in the East on the part of Heer commanders. He cited Manteuffel who, according to Wolff, on assuming a command in the East (presumably of Grossdeutschland), cordially informed the local SS and Police command that "special" security details would not be permitted to operate in his rear area without his personal permission (seldom if ever granted); and that police personnel entering his rear area without the required position would be shot. This was justified by the assertion that Manteuffel, as a senior Army commander, was competent and entitled to assume responsibility for security in his own rear area. According to Wolff, Himmler was most upset by this message, and reported it to Hitler. The Fuhrer, however, was less exercised. He told Himmler that as far as he was concerned, "the Count" (Manteuffel) had his situation well under control - and that was the end of it. A very talented commander, realistic and practical, in any event. Best regards, JR.

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