Erwin Rommel, celebrated German Field Marshal and strategist, passed away in 1944 at the age of 52. Most famous for his leadership of the Axis forces during the North African Campaign of World War II, Rommel was an experienced military leader and tactician. Joining the German army in World War I when he was just a teenager, Rommel quickly made a name for his legendary bravery and leadership abilities. As a lieutenant during the war, he was awarded the Iron Cross, first and second class, as well as other medals of honor. In World War II, Rommel became a general, leading the successful invasion and occupation of France and the Low Countries. He assumed command of the Afrika Corps in 1941 and, due to his impressive leadership skills, was quickly promoted to Field Marshal. He earned a reputation as a skillful military leader, and his North African campaign was marked by a series of successful offensives. Despite his eventual defeat at El Alamein in late 1942, Erwin Rommel will be remembered as one of the most successful military strategists of World War II. He is survived by his wife, Lucie Mollin, and their three sons, Manfred, Gert, and Karl-Heinz.