Who was Karl Wilhelm Krause, and what was his primary role during World War II?

Karl Wilhelm Krause was a Waffen-SS officer who served as a personal orderly and bodyguard to Adolf Hitler from 1934 to mid-September 1939. Later in World War II, he served in the 12th SS Panzer Division "Hitlerjugend" and is credited with conceiving the anti-aircraft tank known as the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind.

When and where was Karl Wilhelm Krause born, and what was his birthplace's political status at the time?

Karl Wilhelm Krause was born on March 5, 1911, in Michelau, West Prussia. At the time of his birth, Michelau was part of the German Empire, specifically within the Kingdom of Prussia.

What were Karl Wilhelm Krause's occupations or studies prior to his military service?

Before joining the military, Karl Wilhelm Krause pursued studies in cabinet making and architecture.

Which branch of the German military did Karl Wilhelm Krause join in 1931?

In 1931, Karl Wilhelm Krause joined the Reichsmarine, which was the navy of the Weimar Republic.

How did Karl Wilhelm Krause come to serve as Adolf Hitler's personal orderly and bodyguard?

In 1934, Adolf Hitler personally selected Karl Wilhelm Krause from a group of Reichsmarine sailors to be his personal orderly and bodyguard.

What SS rank and unit was Karl Wilhelm Krause assigned to when he began serving Hitler?

Upon becoming Hitler's orderly, Krause was given the rank of SS-Untersturmführer, became a member of the Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler (LSSAH), and was assigned to the Führerbegleitkommando unit, which was responsible for Hitler's personal security.

What nickname did Adolf Hitler give Karl Wilhelm Krause, and what was the reason behind it?

Adolf Hitler referred to Karl Wilhelm Krause as his "Schatten," meaning "shadow," because Krause was constantly by Hitler's side at public events and followed him closely everywhere.

What critical directive did Adolf Hitler give Karl Wilhelm Krause regarding his duties?

Adolf Hitler instructed Krause that he was under Hitler's direct personal command and emphasized that "no one must know what you see and hear," highlighting the need for absolute discretion.

When did Karl Wilhelm Krause train Heinz Linge, and what role did Linge later assume?

In early 1935, Karl Wilhelm Krause trained Heinz Linge, whom Hitler had chosen to serve as an additional valet. Linge would later succeed Krause as Hitler's chief personal valet.

Describe the incident involving Heinrich Himmler and Krause's escapade with Hitler on Christmas Eve 1937.

On Christmas Eve 1937, Krause accompanied Hitler on an incognito night out in the city. Although Hitler was not recognized, Krause was reprimanded the following day by Heinrich Himmler, the Reichsfuehrer-SS, for allowing the outing to occur without reporting it.

Based on Krause's accounts, what was Adolf Hitler's typical morning routine regarding personal care?

According to Krause's post-war statements, Hitler would sleep in a nightshirt, bathe, and shave himself each morning without assistance, after which Krause would leave newspapers and messages outside his room.

What specific items constituted Adolf Hitler's common breakfast, as recalled by Krause?

Krause recalled that Adolf Hitler often ate an apple, cheese, and zwieback bread for his morning breakfast, accompanied by tea.

Beyond basic duties, what kind of anticipatory service did Krause provide for Hitler?

Krause was expected to pay close attention to details, anticipating Hitler's desires and whims. For instance, he ensured that five or six movie films were always ready for Hitler to view in the evening.

What were Adolf Hitler's preferences regarding films and actresses, according to Krause?

Krause stated that Greta Garbo was Adolf Hitler's favorite actress. He also recalled that Hitler particularly enjoyed the film "The Lives of a Bengal Lancer."

What specific incident involving mineral water led to Karl Wilhelm Krause's dismissal as Hitler's chief valet in September 1939?

During a front-line inspection, Hitler requested Fachinger mineral water from Krause, but Krause had forgotten to bring it. Krause then gave Hitler regular water, falsely claiming it was Fachinger. Hitler discovered the deception, leading to Krause's dismissal from his role as chief valet.

Who took over as Adolf Hitler's chief personal valet following Karl Wilhelm Krause's dismissal?

Heinz Linge succeeded Karl Wilhelm Krause as the chief personal valet to Adolf Hitler after Krause was dismissed in September 1939.

What military actions did Karl Wilhelm Krause participate in after leaving his role as Hitler's valet?

After leaving his valet duties, Krause returned to the Kriegsmarine and participated in the invasion of Norway in April 1940. He later served in the LSSAH as an ordnance officer.

What notable combat achievement was attributed to Krause's flak unit during the summer of 1944?

During the summer of 1944, Krause's flak unit was credited with successfully shooting down 45 Allied aircraft.

Who is credited with developing the concept for the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind anti-aircraft tank?

The concept for the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind, an anti-aircraft tank, was developed by Karl Wilhelm Krause during the early summer of 1944.

What were the primary armament and chassis components of the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind?

The Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind featured four 20 mm Flak 38 guns mounted in an open-top turret. This turret was equipped with nine armored side panels and was placed on a Panzer IV tank chassis.

To whom did Krause present the Wirbelwind concept, and who ultimately approved its development?

Krause presented the concept for the Wirbelwind to SS-Obersturmbannführer Max Wünsche, who was the commanding officer of the 12th SS Panzer Regiment. The concept subsequently received approval from Adolf Hitler.

Where was the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind produced, and what is the estimated number manufactured?

The Wirbelwinds were produced at the Ostbau Works in Sagan, Silesia. An estimated total of 87 to 105 units were manufactured between May and November 1944.

Why is the exact production number of the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind uncertain?

The precise number of Wirbelwinds produced remains uncertain due to discrepancies between the production figures recorded at the Ostbau Works and the official service records of the Wehrmacht.

What observation was made regarding the effectiveness of the Wirbelwind's 20 mm guns in combat?

In practical application, it was determined that the 20 mm guns on the Wirbelwind were more effective against ground targets than they were against aircraft.

What was the successor vehicle to the Wirbelwind, and what armament did it feature?

A more powerful successor to the Wirbelwind was produced, known as the Flakpanzer IV Ostwind. This vehicle was armed with a single 37 mm Flak 43 gun.

How did Karl Wilhelm Krause's military career conclude at the end of World War II?

At the war's end in May 1945, Krause fled west to avoid the Red Army and surrendered to American troops. He was subsequently interrogated and held in internment until June 1946.

Was Karl Wilhelm Krause considered a war criminal after World War II, and why or why not?

No, Karl Wilhelm Krause was not considered a war criminal. Despite holding the rank of "mid-rank" SS-officer, his role as a bodyguard did not lead to him being classified as such.

What professions did Karl Wilhelm Krause pursue in his civilian life after the war?

After his release from internment, Karl Wilhelm Krause lived in central Germany and worked as a waiter and later as an interior designer.

What was the title of Karl Wilhelm Krause's memoirs, and when and where were they published?

Karl Wilhelm Krause's memoirs were published in West Germany in 1949 under the title "Zehn Jahre Tag und Nacht Kammerdiener bei Hitler" (Ten Years as Hitler's Valet Day and Night).

In what other media did Karl Wilhelm Krause appear, discussing his experiences?

Karl Wilhelm Krause later appeared in and narrated a film released on DVD titled "Der Kammerdiener Adolf Hitlers" (The Valet of Adolf Hitler), focusing on his service from 1934 to 1943.

What military decorations and awards did Karl Wilhelm Krause receive during his service?

Karl Wilhelm Krause received the German Sports Badge, the Iron Cross (both 2nd and 1st Class), the Destroyer War Badge, and the Narvik Shield.

What were Karl Wilhelm Krause's years of military service?

Karl Wilhelm Krause served in the military from 1931 to 1945.

What was Karl Wilhelm Krause's final rank within the Waffen-SS?

Karl Wilhelm Krause's final rank in the Waffen-SS was SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer, which is equivalent to a captain.

Besides the Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler (LSSAH) and the Führerbegleitkommando, what other significant Waffen-SS unit was Karl Wilhelm Krause assigned to?

Karl Wilhelm Krause was also assigned to the 12th SS Panzer Division "Hitlerjugend" during World War II.

What allegiance did Karl Wilhelm Krause hold during his military career?

Karl Wilhelm Krause held allegiance to the Weimar Republic, Nazi Germany, and specifically the Reichsmarine and the Waffen-SS.

What was the significance of the Destroyer War Badge awarded to Krause?

The Destroyer War Badge was a German military decoration awarded for service aboard destroyers, often for participation in naval battles or campaigns. Its award to Krause indicates his service in naval operations.

What does the Narvik Shield award signify?

The Narvik Shield was a German World War II military decoration awarded to personnel who participated in the Battle of Narvik in April 1940. Its award to Krause signifies his involvement in that specific campaign.

What were the two classes of the Iron Cross awarded to Karl Wilhelm Krause?

Karl Wilhelm Krause was awarded both the Iron Cross 2nd Class and the Iron Cross 1st Class.

What was the purpose of the Führerbegleitkommando unit to which Krause was assigned?

The Führerbegleitkommando was a unit specifically tasked with providing personal security for Adolf Hitler.

How did Krause's role as Hitler's 'shadow' influence the knowledge gained about Hitler's personal life?

Because Krause was constantly present with Hitler, his post-war accounts provided valuable insights into Adolf Hitler's daily routines, personal habits, and preferences, such as his breakfast choices and film interests.

What does the term "SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer" translate to in terms of rank?

SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer is a rank within the Waffen-SS that is equivalent to a captain in other military structures.

What was the context for Krause's participation in the invasion of Norway?

Krause participated in the invasion of Norway in April 1940 after returning to the Kriegsmarine, following his dismissal from Hitler's personal service.

What was the role of an ordnance officer, as held by Krause in the LSSAH?

An ordnance officer is typically responsible for managing and overseeing the supply, maintenance, and distribution of military equipment and ammunition within a unit. Krause served in this capacity in the LSSAH after his time as Hitler's valet.

What does the term "Flakpanzer" refer to?

Flakpanzer is a German term for an anti-aircraft tank, a mobile armored vehicle equipped with anti-aircraft artillery designed to engage aerial targets.

What was the significance of Krause being interned until June 1946?

Following his surrender to American troops in May 1945, Krause was held in internment for interrogation and processing, indicating he was considered a prisoner of war or a person of interest until his release in June 1946.

What does the "fn" designation in the infobox entry for Karl Wilhelm Krause signify?

The "fn" designation in the infobox stands for "fn," which is a standard abbreviation used in biographical infoboxes to denote the person's full name or primary identifier.

What does the "vcard" class on the infobox table indicate?

The "vcard" class is a microformat used in web development to structure contact information, often applied to infoboxes on websites like Wikipedia to semantically define the data within it as relating to a person or organization.

What does the term "Waffen-SS" refer to?

Waffen-SS refers to the combat formations of the SS (Schutzstaffel) organization and a major military component of Nazi Germany. It was distinct from the Allgemeine SS (General SS) and comprised armed combat units fighting alongside the Wehrmacht.

What was the "Führerbegleitkommando"?

The Führerbegleitkommando was a unit within the Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler (LSSAH) specifically responsible for the close personal security and protection of Adolf Hitler.

What does the "mw-file-element" class applied to images signify?

The "mw-file-element" class is used within the MediaWiki software, which powers Wikipedia, to denote an image file that is part of the page's content, indicating it's a rendered image from the platform's file system.

Karl Wilhelm Krause Wiki: The Führer's Shadow: Karl Wilhelm Krause's Path Through War and Service

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Overview

Karl Wilhelm Krause
Born	5 March 1911 Michelau, West Prussia, Prussia, German Empire
Died	6 May 2001 (aged 90) Germany
Allegiance	Weimar Republic Nazi Germany
Branch	Reichsmarine LSSAH Kriegsmarine Waffen-SS
Years of service	1931–1945
Rank	SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer
Unit	1st SS Division Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler, Führerbegleitkommando; 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend
Battles / wars	Invasion of Norway

Personal Background

Karl Wilhelm Krause was born on March 5, 1911, in Michelau, West Prussia. His early life included studies in cabinet making and architecture before he entered military service. He joined the Reichsmarine, the German navy, in 1931, laying the foundation for his subsequent military career.

Key Roles

Krause's career path led him through several distinct roles. Initially serving in the Reichsmarine, he was later selected for a highly sensitive position within Adolf Hitler's personal security detail. He achieved the rank of SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer within the Waffen-SS and served with prominent units such as the Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler and the 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend. His service spanned critical periods of German history, from the Weimar Republic through World War II.

Early Life and Service

Education and Naval Entry

Born in Michelau, West Prussia, in March 1911, Karl Wilhelm Krause pursued studies in cabinet making and architecture. This foundational training in craftsmanship preceded his entry into military service. In 1931, he enlisted in the Reichsmarine, the naval force of the Weimar Republic, beginning a period of service that would shape his future trajectory.

Hitler's Personal Orderly

The Führer's Shadow

In 1934, Adolf Hitler personally selected Krause from a group of Reichsmarine sailors to serve as his personal orderly and bodyguard. Krause was granted the rank of SS-Untersturmfuhrer and became a member of the Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler (LSSAH), assigned to the Führerbegleitkommando unit responsible for Hitler's close protection. Hitler referred to Krause as his "shadow" due to his constant presence at public appearances and his ubiquitous following of Hitler.

Krause was instructed by Hitler that his role demanded absolute discretion, emphasizing that "no one must know what you see and hear." In early 1935, Krause undertook the training of Heinz Linge, who was chosen by Hitler to serve as an additional valet. A notable incident occurred on Christmas Eve 1937 when Hitler and Krause ventured out incognito; Krause was subsequently reprimanded by Heinrich Himmler for allowing the excursion without prior reporting.

Daily Routines and Preferences

Through Krause's post-war accounts, insights into Hitler's daily life emerged. Krause would leave newspapers and messages outside Hitler's room each morning. Hitler would then attend to his own bathing and shaving before emerging for breakfast, often consisting of an apple, cheese, zwieback bread, and tea. Krause's duties extended beyond mere presence; he was expected to anticipate Hitler's desires, such as ensuring a selection of five or six films were available for evening viewing. Krause recalled Hitler's fondness for actress Greta Garbo and mentioned Hitler's enjoyment of the film The Lives of a Bengal Lancer.

Dismissal from Service

In September 1939, during a front-line inspection, an incident involving mineral water led to Krause's dismissal as chief valet. Hitler requested Fachinger mineral water, but Krause had forgotten to bring it. Cautious of potential poisoning, Hitler refused local Polish water. Krause served him regular water, falsely claiming it was Fachinger. Hitler quickly discerned the deception and dismissed Krause. Heinz Linge subsequently succeeded Krause as Hitler's chief personal valet.

World War II Service

Naval and SS Deployment

Following his departure from Hitler's personal service, Krause returned to the Kriegsmarine. He participated in the invasion of Norway in April 1940 as part of Operation Weserübung. Subsequently, he rejoined the Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler (LSSAH) as an ordnance officer, assigned to the Reich Chancellery. In December 1943, Krause was transferred to the 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend, where he attained the rank of SS-Hauptsturmfuhrer.

Anti-Aircraft Operations

During the summer of 1944, Krause's flak unit achieved notable success, being credited with the destruction of 45 Allied aircraft. This period highlighted his involvement in direct combat operations within the Waffen-SS, demonstrating a transition from his earlier security and logistical roles.

Armored Vehicle Innovation

The Wirbelwind Concept

In the summer of 1944, Krause conceived the idea for an anti-aircraft tank that would become known as the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind (Whirlwind). His design featured four 20 mm Flak 38 guns mounted in an open-top turret, integrated onto a Panzer IV tank chassis. This innovative concept was presented to SS-Obersturmbannführer Max Wünsche, commander of the 12th SS Panzer Regiment, and subsequently received approval from Adolf Hitler.

Production and Effectiveness

The Wirbelwind tanks were manufactured by Ostbau Works in Sagan, Silesia. Production figures vary, with estimates ranging from approximately 87 to 105 units produced between May and November 1944. While initially intended for anti-aircraft defense, operational experience indicated that the 20 mm guns proved more effective against ground targets. A successor vehicle, the Flakpanzer IV Ostwind (East Wind), was developed, armed with a more powerful single 37 mm Flak 43 gun.

Post-War Life

Surrender and Internment

As the war concluded in May 1945, Krause moved westward to evade capture by the Red Army and ultimately surrendered to American forces. He underwent interrogation and was held in internment until June 1946. Following his release after being fined, Krause was not classified as a war criminal, despite his mid-rank SS officer status, likely due to the nature of his roles.

Civilian Career and Memoirs

After the war, Krause settled in central Germany, pursuing civilian careers as a waiter and an interior designer. His experiences during his time with Hitler were documented in his memoirs, published in West Germany as Zehn Jahre Tag und Nacht Kammerdiener bei Hitler ("Ten Years as Hitler's Valet Day and Night") in Hamburg in 1949. Later in life, Krause appeared in and narrated a DVD production titled Der Kammerdiener Adolf Hitlers ("The Valet of Adolf Hitler").

Awards and Decorations

Recognition for Service

Karl Wilhelm Krause received several awards and decorations during his military service:

German Sports Badge
Iron Cross (1939) 2nd and 1st Class
Destroyer War Badge
Narvik Shield

References

^ ^a ^b ^c Hamilton 1984, p. 157.
^ Hoffmann 2000, p. 56.
^ ^a ^b DAlmeida 2008, p. 138.
^ Linge 2009, p. 11.
^ Kershaw 2008, p. 375.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ Hamilton 1984, p. 158.
^ Toland 1977, p. 411.
^ ^a ^b Linge 2009, p. 20.
^ Joachimsthaler 1999, p. 283.
^ ^a ^b Ailsby 2003, p. 104.
^ ^a ^b Ailsby 1997, p. 99.
^ ^a ^b ^c Chamberlain 1999, pp. 110, 111.
^ Bishop 2002, pp. 166, 167.
^ Swedish historical author Bengt Liljegren has used a few references of Karause's work, and publishes Krause among his other sources in alphabetical order (at pp. 411–421), in Liljegren's "Adolf Hitler".

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References

Swedish historical author Bengt Liljegren has used a few references of Karause's work, and publishes Krause among his other sources in alphabetical order (at pp. 411â421), in Liljegrens "Adolf Hitler".

A full list of references for this article are available at the Karl Wilhelm Krause Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. Historical figures and events discussed are presented factually based on the source material, without endorsement or judgment.

This is not historical or military advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research, military analysis, or expert consultation. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified historians or subject matter experts for in-depth understanding and context.

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The Führer's Shadow

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

👤 Personal Background

📜 Key Roles

Early Life and Service ⚓

🎓 Education and Naval Entry

Hitler's Personal Orderly 👤

🤵 The Führer's Shadow

🗓️ Daily Routines and Preferences

💧 Dismissal from Service

World War II Service ⚔️

🚢 Naval and SS Deployment

✈️ Anti-Aircraft Operations

Armored Vehicle Innovation ⚙️

💡 The Wirbelwind Concept

🏭 Production and Effectiveness

Post-War Life 🕊️

🤝 Surrender and Internment

💼 Civilian Career and Memoirs

Awards and Decorations 🎖️

🏅 Recognition for Service

References 📚

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Personal Background

Key Roles

Early Life and Service

Education and Naval Entry

Hitler's Personal Orderly

The Führer's Shadow

Daily Routines and Preferences

Dismissal from Service

World War II Service

Naval and SS Deployment

Anti-Aircraft Operations

Armored Vehicle Innovation

The Wirbelwind Concept

Production and Effectiveness

Post-War Life

Surrender and Internment

Civilian Career and Memoirs

Awards and Decorations

Recognition for Service

References

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice