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Erich BuschenhagenGerman officer, participant in the First and Second World Wars, infantry general
Date of Birth: 08.12.1895
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- German Military Officer and World War II Veteran
- Service in the Reichswehr
- World War II Campaigns
- Eastern Front and Awards
- Knight's Cross and Combat Achievements
- Capture and Soviet Captivity
German Military Officer and World War II Veteran
Early Military Career and World War IIn March 1914, the German officer embarked on his military career as a cadet in the Telegraph Battalion. By January 1915, he had risen to the rank of lieutenant and commanded a communications company. During World War I, he earned both Iron Crosses and an Austrian decoration for his service.
Service in the Reichswehr
After the war, he continued his military service in the Reichswehr. By the outbreak of World War II, he had risen to the rank of colonel and was the chief of staff of the 21st Army Corps.
World War II Campaigns
Invasion of Poland and NorwayIn 1939, the officer participated in the invasion of Poland and received additional Iron Crosses for his actions. In May 1940, he played a role in the Norwegian Campaign. From December 1940, he served as chief of staff of the army in Norway.
Eastern Front and Awards
In August 1941, he was promoted to major general. In June 1942, he assumed command of the 15th Infantry Division in France, earning the German Gold Cross for his actions in the Norwegian Campaign. By February 1943, his division had been transferred to the Eastern Front, where they fought in the Battle of Kharkov. In July 1943, he was promoted to lieutenant general and stationed at Buschenhagen.
Knight's Cross and Combat Achievements
In December 1943, the officer was awarded the Knight's Cross for his actions near Krivoy Rog. From November 1943, he commanded the 52nd Army Corps on the Dnieper River. In February 1944, he was promoted to general of infantry. For his victories on the Dniester River, he was awarded the Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross in July 1944.
Capture and Soviet Captivity
On September 4, 1944, the general was captured by Soviet forces. He remained a prisoner of war until October 1955, when he was released.
