The Fate of the Austrian Army After Anschluss: Integration into the Wehrmacht and Key Figures
Following the Anschluss in March 1938, which marked the incorporation of Austria into Nazi Germany, the Austrian Army met a significant transformation. This process involved the dissolution of the existing military structure and its integration into the German Wehrmacht. This article delves into the key aspects of this transition, highlighting notable figures who achieved high-ranking positions within the German military during World War II.
Dissolution and Integration into the Wehrmacht
The Anschluss aimed to unify all German-speaking territories under Nazi control, making the existence of an independent Austrian military contradictory. Consequently, the Austrian Army was officially disbanded as part of the broader integration plans. Officers and soldiers from the Austrian military were absorbed into the German armed forces. Some were integrated into existing Wehrmacht units, while others were assigned to new formations.
Military Equipment and Resources
Beyond personnel, the German military took over the military equipment and resources of the Austrian Army. This consolidation of military assets further solidified Nazi control over the region, creating a uniformed military force loyal to the Third Reich.
Political and Military Repercussions
The disbanding of the Austrian Army also had significant political ramifications. It was part of a broader effort to erase nationalist sentiments in Austria and fully integrate the country into the Nazi regime. This move ensured that any potential resistance or nationalist sentiments were suppressed.
The Fates of Former Austrian Soldiers
The transition of Austrian soldiers into the Wehrmacht did not provide a uniform outcome for all. Many continued their military careers within the Wehrmacht, while others faced dire consequences, especially those who opposed the Nazi regime. In some cases, these opposition figures were subject to harsh punishments or even death.
Notable Figures in the Wehrmacht
Lothar Rendulic
One of the most notable figures was Lothar Rendulic, a general who held several positions on the Eastern Front. Notably, he successfully defeated a Russian counteroffensive north of Marshal Fedor Von Kuroy’s 9th Army during the Battle of Kursk. He also conducted anti-partisan operations in Yugoslavia and orchestrated the Rosselsprung (Desant na Drvar) operation, which involved a daring airborne assault. Rendulic ended the war as the commander of the 20th Mountain Army in Finland. During the Nuremberg Trials, he was found guilty of war crimes in Yugoslavia but acquitted for charges related to war crimes in Finland. He was released in 1951.
Alexander Lohr
Alexander Lohr served as an Austrian air force commander and ended World War II as a high-ranking Luftwaffe officer in Southeast Europe. He was tried and convicted for war crimes in Yugoslavia but managed to evade similar charges in Finland.
Erhard Raus
Erhard Raus was a high-ranking commander who rose to lead the 6th Panzer Division on the Eastern Front. He steadily advanced to become the commander of the 1st Panzer Army, showcasing his strategic acumen and military prowess.
Franz B?hme
During World War II, Franz B?hme served as the military commander of Serbia, where he conducted brutal reprisals against civilians for partisan actions. He eventually succeeded Rendulic as the commander of the 2nd Panzer Army. After the war, B?hme ended up as the military commander of Norway. During the Nuremberg Trials, he faced war crime charges in Yugoslavia and tragically committed suicide.
Conclusion
The Anschluss marked the end of Austrian military sovereignty and the beginning of its integration into the Nazi German military structure. This transition resulted in a significant transformation for many former Austrian soldiers. Notable figures such as Lothar Rendulic, Alexander Lohr, Erhard Raus, and Franz B?hme exemplify the complex roles that Austrians played in the Wehrmacht during World War II. Their stories highlight the multifaceted nature of the integration process and the varying fates experienced by these soldiers.