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Otto CariusGerman tank ace of World War II
Date of Birth: 27.05.1922
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Otto Carius: German Tank Ace of World War II
- Early Career and Eastern Front Service
- Breakthrough Battle near Leningrad
- Western Front and Capture by Allies
- Post-War Life and Legacy
- Awards and Recognition
- German Cross in Gold
Otto Carius: German Tank Ace of World War II
Career HighlightsOtto Carius, a renowned German tank ace of World War II, achieved exceptional success on the battlefield. His impressive tally of over 150 destroyed enemy tanks and self-propelled guns places him among the most accomplished tank commanders of the conflict, alongside legendary figures such as Michael Wittmann and Kurt Knispel.
Early Career and Eastern Front Service
Carius began his tank career on the light Pz.38 "Skoda" tank. In 1942, he transitioned to the formidable Pz.VI "Tiger" heavy tank and fought on the Eastern Front. Alongside Wittmann, he became a Nazi military legend, and his name was widely employed in Third Reich propaganda during the war.
Breakthrough Battle near Leningrad
In 1944, Carius's most significant victory occurred near Leningrad. Leading an eight-tank "Tiger" company, he destroyed an entire Red Army tank brigade consisting of over 50 tanks without suffering any losses. However, subsequent research has raised questions about the magnitude of this claim.
Western Front and Capture by Allies
After a severe injury in 1944, Carius recovered and continued fighting on the Western Front. Following an order from his command, he surrendered to American occupation forces and spent a period in a POW camp before his release.
Post-War Life and Legacy
After the war, Carius became a pharmacist. In June 1956, he purchased a pharmacy in Herschweiler-Pettersheim, renaming it "Tiger Apotheke." As of November 2009, he continued to manage the pharmacy.
Estimates vary regarding the total number of enemy tanks and self-propelled guns destroyed by Carius's crew. It is believed to be between 150 and 200, along with numerous artillery pieces and an aircraft.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of his remarkable accomplishments, Carius was awarded the following medals:
Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds
German Cross in Gold
Wound Badge in GoldPanzer Badge in Silver (with number 9)
Literary Work
In 1960, Carius published his book "Tiger im Schlamm" ("Tigers in the Mud"), a firsthand account of his experiences with the "Tiger" tank and its formidable capabilities in combat.
