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Karl von DeckerPrussian general, military theorist, writer
Date of Birth: 21.04.1784
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Military Career
- Post-War Service and Return to England
- Return to Prussia and Napoleon's Defeat
- Post-Napoleonic Career
- Promotion and Publications
- Decker died on June 29, 1844.
Early Military Career
Carl Philipp von Decker was born in Berlin on April 21, 1784. He joined the military as an artillery officer in 1797, rising to the rank of lieutenant of horse artillery by 1800. In 1807, he fought against Napoleon in East Prussia, receiving the Pour le Mérite for his bravery at the Battle of Preußisch-Eylau.
Post-War Service and Return to England
After the campaign, Decker resigned from the military but rejoined in 1809 as a captain. He participated in the Duke of Brunswick's campaign against the French and followed him into exile in England after its failure.
Return to Prussia and Napoleon's Defeat
In 1813, King Frederick William III of Prussia called Decker back to his homeland. He joined the General Staff as a captain and participated in the battles of Dresden, Kulm, and Leipzig. He also served in the 1814 campaign in France.
When Napoleon returned from Elba, Decker fought at Ligny and Waterloo. He received the Order of St. Vladimir, 4th Class, from the Russian Tsar Alexander I, and the Iron Cross from Prussia.
Post-Napoleonic Career
After Napoleon's final defeat in 1815, Decker became chief of a surveying division in the Topographical Bureau. He was promoted to major in 1817 and ennobled. In 1818, he became an instructor at the General Military Academy, also teaching at the artillery and engineering schools in Berlin until 1820.
A duel that resulted in the death of his opponent forced Decker to serve time in the Spandau Fortress. In 1828, he was reassigned to the army artillery and temporarily commanded the 8th and 1st Artillery Brigades.
Promotion and Publications
In 1832, Decker was promoted to lieutenant colonel, followed by colonel in 1841 and major general in 1842. He left a legacy of military-theoretical works, including the weekly "Militär Wochenblatt" and the military literature newspaper "Militär-Litteraturzeitung." He also used the pseudonym Adalbert fom Thale to write several comedies.
