:biggrin: For my state exam at the end of secondary (high) school, I studied history. I had to pick one topic from modern European or Irish history and 20% of my exam was an essay on that topic. I picked Rommel. I found him a fascinating figure - not a Nazi as such (in fact, involved in the plot to kill Hitler), but a German patriot, and an exciting military figure.
Churchill, "We have a very daring and skillful opponent against us, and, may I say across the havoc of war, a great General."
Churchill, on hearing of Rommel's death, "He also deserves our respect, because, although a loyal German soldier, he came to hate Hitler and all his works, and took part in the conspiracy to rescue Germany by displacing the maniac and tyrant. For this, he paid the forfeit of his life. In the sombre wars of modern democracy, there is little place for chivalry”
Theodor Werner, an officer who, during World War I, served under Rommel, "Anybody who came under the spell of his personality turned into a real soldier. He seemed to know what the enemy were like and how they would react."
Attributed to General George S. Patton in North Africa (referring to "Infantry Attacks"), "Rommel, you magnificent bastard! I read your book!"