The German general killed by a sniper was Otto Lancelle.
Otto Lancelle: The General Killed by a Sniper
General Otto Lancelle, a German military leader, met his demise on July 3, 1941, when he was shot by a sniper. This significant event occurred at a crucial bridgehead on the Daugava River, specifically near Krāslava, Latvia. His death marked a somber milestone for the German forces, as he was the first German general to be killed on Soviet territory during World War II.
Key Facts About General Otto Lancelle's Death
To provide a clear overview of the circumstances surrounding General Lancelle's death, here are the key details:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Otto Lancelle |
| Rank | General |
| Cause of Death | Shot by a sniper |
| Date of Death | July 3, 1941 |
| Location of Death | Bridgehead on the Daugava near Krāslava, Latvia |
| Historical Significance | First German general killed in Soviet territory |
| Announcement | Announced in Berlin on July 10, 1941 |
The Impact of His Death
General Lancelle's death, occurring just days after the launch of Operation Barbarossa (the German invasion of the Soviet Union), underscored the fierce and immediate resistance faced by the Wehrmacht. Being the first general to fall in Soviet territory, his loss served as an early indicator of the brutal nature of the Eastern Front.
For more detailed information on General Otto Lancelle's military career and his role in the conflict, you can refer to his biographical entries, such as on Wikipedia.
