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Fritz-Hubert GraserGerman officer
Date of Birth: 03.11.1888
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Otto Greser: A German Tank General during World Wars I and II
- World War I
- Interwar Period
- World War II
- Capture and Imprisonment
Otto Greser: A German Tank General during World Wars I and II
Early Life and Military CareerOtto Greser was born in 1891 in Germany. He joined the military in February 1907 as a "fenrich" (officer candidate) in an infantry regiment. He was promoted to lieutenant in January 1908 and served on the front lines from August 8, 1914, onward.
World War I
Greser quickly rose through the ranks during World War I, becoming a senior lieutenant in November 1914 and a company commander in January 1915. He was wounded in September 1915 and subsequently served in various staff positions. By the end of the war, he had earned both Iron Crosses and two other orders.
Interwar Period
Greser left the military in January 1920 but returned to service in May 1934 as a major. By the start of World War II, he commanded an infantry regiment as a colonel.
World War II
Polish and French Campaigns (1939-1940):Greser participated in the Polish and French campaigns, earning additional Iron Crosses. He was awarded the Knight's Cross (No. 140) for his actions in France.
Eastern Front (1941):Greser commanded a motorized infantry division in the invasion of the Soviet Union. He was heavily wounded on July 11, 1941, and had his left leg amputated.
Italy (1943-1944):After recovering, Greser commanded the 3rd Tank-Grenadier Division in Italy. He earned the Oak Leaves (No. 517) to his Knight's Cross for his leadership.
Eastern Front Again (1944):Greser commanded the 24th and 48th Tank Corps on the Eastern Front, leading to his promotion to general of tank troops.
4th Panzer Army (1944-1945):Greser commanded the 4th Panzer Army in Poland and Germany. On May 8, 1945, he was awarded the Swords (No. 154) to his Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves.
Capture and Imprisonment
Greser surrendered to the Americans on May 9, 1945, and was released from captivity in June 1947. He died in 1960.
