Hans Ahlfen Major General of the Wehrmacht. Date of Birth: 20.02.1897 Country: Germany

1. Hans von Ahlfen
2. Defense of Breslau
3. Leadership and Surrender
4. Post-War Activities

Hans von Ahlfen

Hans von Ahlfen's military career began on March 22, 1915, as a graduate of the engineering and sapper troops. He served in the 2nd Engineer Battalion and received various promotions in the Reichswehr. During World War II, he rose to the rank of Major in 1942 and Colonel on November 1, 1944.

Defense of Breslau

During the Siege of Breslau in 1945, Ahlfen issued an order on February 6th prohibiting refugees from returning to the city. On February 8th, he was promoted to General and took command as a Colonel. On February 15th, he ordered the mobilization of all citizens, regardless of age or gender, to prepare for battle. He also initiated the conversion of the neo-Gothic Church of St. Karol into a resistance center, making it a target of intense Soviet artillery and air attacks.

Leadership and Surrender

Ahlfen's most significant contribution was his leadership of the defense of Breslau from January 31 (or February 3, according to some accounts) to March 5, 1945. On March 6, 1945, he was replaced by General Hermann Niehoff.

Post-War Activities

After the siege, Ahlfen was transferred to Army Group B on the Western Front and was eventually captured by the Americans. After the war, he and Niehoff co-authored the book "So k?mpfte Breslau," which chronicled the defense of the fortress.