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Erich AbrahamGerman officer, participant in the First and Second World Wars, infantry general
Date of Birth: 27.03.1895
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Military Career during World War I
- Post-World War I and Return to Military Service
- World War II: French Campaign
- World War II: Eastern Front
- Commanding the 76th Infantry Division and Beyond
- Final Battles and Post-War
Military Career during World War I
Beginning his military career as a volunteer infantry soldier on 4th August 1914, the German officer fought valiantly during World War I. He earned the rank of corporal in December 1914, sergeant in March 1915, and lieutenant in July 1915, leading an infantry platoon. His wartime achievements were recognized with both Iron Crosses and an Austrian order.
Post-World War I and Return to Military Service
After being discharged from the military in May 1920 due to the Versailles Treaty, the officer served in the police force. However, in October 1935, he returned to the military as a major. By the outbreak of World War II, he was a lieutenant colonel commanding an infantry battalion.
World War II: French Campaign
From April 1940, the officer led an infantry regiment. He participated in the French Campaign from May to June 1940, earning clasps to both his Iron Crosses for his second-time awards.
World War II: Eastern Front
The officer fought on the Eastern Front from 22nd June 1941, participating in battles in Ukraine. Promoted to colonel in August 1941, he was awarded the German Cross in Gold in March 1942. In November 1942, he received the Knight's Cross and the Silver Infantry Assault Badge for his actions in the Battle of Stalingrad.
Commanding the 76th Infantry Division and Beyond
From April 1943, the officer commanded the 76th Infantry Division in France, rising to the rank of major general on 15th May 1943. In December 1943, the division was deployed to the Eastern Front in Ukraine. Promoted to lieutenant general in March 1944, he was awarded the Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross in June 1944.
In August 1944, he commanded the 6th Romanian Corps, followed by the "Abraham" Group (comprising German and Hungarian infantry divisions) from September to October 1944. In November 1944, he entered the command reserve, and in December 1944, he took command of the 63rd Army Corps on the Western Front.
Final Battles and Post-War
The officer engaged in battles on the Rhine in 1945. On 26th February 1945, he attained the rank of general of infantry. After Germany's capitulation on 8th May 1945, he was taken prisoner by the Americans and released in August 1947.
