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Paul LauxGerman officer, participant in the First and Second World Wars, infantry general
Date of Birth: 11.11.1887
Country:  Germany |
Content:
Early Life and Military Career
In February 1907, a young German man embarked on his military journey as a Fahnenjunker (officer candidate) in an infantry regiment. By August 1908, he had earned his lieutenant's commission and held staff positions.
World War I
As World War I raged, the officer, now a captain by August 1916, rose to command an infantry battalion in 1918. His bravery on the battlefield earned him both Iron Crosses and four other decorations.
Interwar Years and Reichswehr
Upon the war's end, the officer continued his military career in the Reichswehr. By the outbreak of World War II, he had risen to the rank of Major General and became deputy chief of staff of the 1st Army.
World War II
- Polish and French Campaigns:In the Polish Campaign (September-October 1939) and the French Campaign (May-June 1940), the officer played an active role.
- Eastern Front:From June 22, 1941, he participated in the invasion of the Soviet Union, leading his unit in battles in the Baltics and near Leningrad. In December 1941, he received the coveted Knight's Cross.
- Corps and Army Command:In October-November 1942, he commanded the "Lauks" Corps. On November 28, he assumed command of the 2nd Army Corps, attaining the rank of General of the Infantry in December 1942.
- Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves:For his outstanding leadership, he was awarded the Oak Leaves to the Knight's Cross in May 1943.
- Final Days:From July 3, 1944, he commanded the 16th Army in Latvia. Tragically, he perished in an airplane crash on August 29, 1944, and succumbed to his injuries in a hospital in Riga on September 2.
