Famous commanders from the Second World War

Georgy Zhukov

Georgy Zhukov was a prominent commander in some of the most famous and important engagements of the Second World War – most notably the battles of Stalingrad and Kursk. He was also in command of Operation Bagration which led to the eventual capture of Berlin in 1945 and the end of the Second World War.

Field Marshal Montgomery

Shot in the lung by a sniper during the First World War, 'Monty' survived to play a pivotal role in the Allied war effort during the Second World War.

Although Montgomery was a major figure in the retreat at Dunkirk, the battle of Normandy and the allied advance to the Rhine, he is best remembered as the man who led the allies to victory in North Africa at the battle of El Alamein. Montgomery united the armies of North Africa against the German forces of Rommel, meticulously planning the North African campaign.

Well liked by his men, Montgomery's successes in North Africa gave the allies hope that the war was turning in their favour.

Erwin Rommel

Known to history as "The Desert Fox", Rommel was highly respected by his men as well as by his Allied enemies in North Africa. He is also regarded as one of the most skilled commanders of the Second World War.

Eventually unsuccessful in North Africa, Rommel was responsible for reorganising the German defence of France, correctly speculating that the allied invasion would take place on the coast of Normandy, not Calais as many of his contemporaries believed. His defensive programme contributed greatly to the casualties suffered by the allies on D-day.

However, Rommel was not to see out the war. Linked with the 20th July plot to kill Hitler, he was forced to commit suicide or face public humiliation and the persecution of his family at trial. He chose the former and was buried with full military honours.