"We are also responsible for our obedience !" Hannah Arendt
The video tells the final seven months of Field Marshal Erwin Rommel's life.
MEN LINGEN , NEAR ULM October 14, 1944
Subtitles downloaded from Podnapisi.NET
WARNING HALT
I 'll take it.
Heil Hitler. General Field Marshal waiting for us .
- Your gowns ? - It is not necessary.
- Will you take us to the general field marshal ? - Of course .
- Heil Hitler. - General.
General Field Marshal .
Ma'am .
- You stay well out to lunch ? - No, thank you. We are here in the service.
May I ask you to leave us alone with General Field Marshal ?
Come on .
I announce if we need anything.
Aldinger , develop Normandy documents.
It's so well ? You are looking for an idiot blaming the West Front collapse .
You are accused of having been involved the assassination of the Fuhrer .
What ?
WEEKLY NEWS
Desert Fox , winner at El Agheila
- hero of Tobruk and North African conquerors ...
... Field Marshal Rommel ; inspecting the Atlantic Wall .
From North Cape to the Pyrenees ranges the world's largest fortification .
Numerous military divisions ; with hundreds of thousands of experienced soldiers ,
- now available at the westerly line of defense ,
- to fight back enemy anticipated invasion.
Here are the soldiers who stand ready to defend the freedom of Europe and culture.
They are equipped with the most modern weapons .
And here is their very combat experienced leaders.
With peace and military assertiveness he awaits the big fight .
With Rommel in the Western Front , Germany can sleep safely .
Thank you. Great. Stay there , we will up and shooting close-ups .
Do what you want , as long as you delay invasion by a week.
- Fuehrer's adjutant is here. - Thank you, Aldinger .
I need your support. High German officers that the Russians captured -
- Have sent letters to officers and urged them to stop the war.
They're dictated by Stalin himself .
Unfortunately not. There is clear evidence that the letters are not forged.
- Do you also have one? - No. And then I ripped it .
Now that the war escalates , Fuhrer must know with certainty -
- That there is a one-off and that the field marshal is loyal .
- The Führer knows I am loyal . - Hostile flight !
Give me , Aldinger .
They have not seen us yet. - Daniel , try to reach the forest.
- They face . They 've found us ! - Maybe you should sit down .
Gasa . Faster. - Where do you see the problems we have here.
Not a German plane in sight. The allies chasing us like hares.
Stop!
In here. Fort . - This Way . In there .
Do not, you still can not hit .
In there . Quick!
Shit !
Survived all ?
" On all soldiers and officers' behalf " -
- " We declare our allegiance to the Führer and National Socialism. "
"Therefore , we promise to do all we can for every soldier " -
- " To fight even more intense of National Socialism 's future. "
" Berchtesgarden , March 15, 1944 ".
My adjutant was very impressed of his visit to the Atlantic Wall .
I look forward to your progress .
This was two weeks ago off Plymouth .
The enemy appears prepare a landing .
They also gather force English Channel. At least 50 divisions.
- They will then in a few weeks . - About they come.
They have practiced this before .
It 's obvious that the Allies must come west.
I 'm really looking forward their departure .
What do you think? Where will they try ?
They are probably trying here , in Calais. Or in Normandy.
The two peninsulas offer excellent opportunities for bridgeheads .
How the enemy will act?
First they bombarded our positions.
Then attack boats and armored landing vehicles -
- Under the cover of artillery and bombers . Airborne troops placed behind the front.
What is your counter-move ?
The enemy will be killed at the landing . The beach is the battle line .
Empty talk , Mr. Rommel . How defends to an over 2,000 km of coastline ?
We miss forces.
We place all armored divisions to the coast. I 'll show you.
Within three months , it looks like this everywhere on the Atlantic Wall .
Barriers hinder for landing boats.
Artillery shells them directly at the landing .
And we have no artillery in place, taking armor units over .
If the enemy breaks through at one point on fältmarskalkens defense line
- Empire is defenseless .
When the Allies marching to Berlin. Our tanks can only follow.
Our tanks kill all enemies who disembarked in 48 hours.
Before the tanks get there , it has enemy plane bombed them apart .
Mein Führer ... I ask you to give me command of armored forces .
Only then can we prevent enemy invasion.
Then we put everything on one card . Without strategic reserves .
As commander in chief in the West I allow it .
But for three years, have you allowed Atlantic Wall to be inadequate.
While Rommel short time has done exemplary work .
An invasion must be strictly avoided. For one thing is certain :
If the landing fails, do not they try again .
Then we can redirect forces where we need them - in the East.
All 45 divisions.
war output depends on you and your soldiers.
And even Reich and the fate of the nation .
- Do you realize that, Field Marshal ? - Yes, my Führer .
Can you at least wait at Manfred ? He will be disappointed.
Tell him . We have very little time before the enemy is coming, and much to do.
- You can do it . - I must.
Fuhrer expects I save the kingdom .
How nice that he trusts you again .
FRANCE April 15, 1944
Rommel HEADQUARTERS
There you are . We were expecting you earlier , General.
We were chased by enemy aircraft .
Their superiority in the air is our largest problems . My adjutant , Captain Aldinger .
Take the general's baggage . - You will get to meet my staff , Speidel .
- How's the cheese ? - The Russian offensive can not be stopped.
Führer's orders are catastrophic .
They give unnecessary coincident , and prevents the front moved.
- Move the front? - For Reich boundaries, if possible.
Then do not negotiate the enemy with us. Would you like to be humiliated ?
- No. - We will prevent the invasion.
Only then may the Führer a strong bargaining position .
Gentlemen, our new Chief of Staff , General Speidel .
Nice .
Countess La Rochefoucauld , Castle owner's nephew .
- Bonjour. - Comtesse , bonjour .
She speaks excellent German. She interprets for us.
- Er famous ancestor , the author ? - Yes.
" La jeunesse est une Ivresse continuelle . "
"C'est la fièvre de la raison . "
- It was well he ? - Yes.
Youth is a continual intoxication. The reason is fever.
Who did you mean , Speidel ? There's just a youth here , Countess.
- It happened just like that. - The Countess knows what is proper .
- Are you sure? - Are not you ?
- Messieurs , good evening . - Bonsoir .
It easily becomes a villain . Not true Speidel ?
Here at Calvados Coast we still have a gap of 40 kilometers.
If the tanks will not it looks dark.
The Führer has promised to curb units will . You get your tanks.
We must move obstacles ahead , Marcks .
The Allies practice landing at low tide now.
So it looks . But we 'll give them long way to the beach.
How ? I can not tire out the men with pick and shovel .
I have rested soldiers.
That's the problem . Your men are too rested after three years of beach vacations.
See the doctor Speidel . He was on the eastern front , but he laments ?
I lost my leg on the eastern front.
And with all due respect , I tell you :
Your plan requires a minimum of one year. Anyone who says otherwise ...
- ... Hide the truth or does not know. - What do you imagine ?
The Führer has given me orders to prevent the Allied landing .
And a slacker like you should not hinder me.
Now make sure to get the job done.
Yes.
Maybe it was a little rough , but otherwise nothing happens here , believe me.
Wait, Marcks .
- He knows Marcks is absolutely right. - Your men have been frequent . Sorry.
PARIS April 25, 1944
German military ADMINISTRATION
It has happened to some here , Hans.
Paris Jews was sent to the East, but traffic continues ...
And SS chasing even Jewish children , that residents are hiding .
The local SS last idea.
Resistance bomb stations and then exploded even wagons are doors .
Some Jews fled. To prevent there transported the now bare.
Come on .
Colonel Hofacker , Count Stauffenberg's cousin.
- General. - Nice to meet you .
Berlin would finally act. Therefore, they asked me to trust myself to you .
- It's about Rommel . - Rommel ?
Can he convince to participate in kupplanerna ?
He will do anything to succeed in the West. He wants to prevent the invasion.
Convince him. Is Rommel with , we get the support of the front.
And of the people. Do not forget he is our most popular general .
A major step : from Fuhrer minion the figurehead of the coup.
- But the only thing possible . - I must see him.
Preferably without the Gestapo know . Can you arrange that?
Rommel HEADQUARTERS April 28, 1944
- Guderian decides on the tanks . - Not Führer ?
Führer asked me to inspect them and submit recommendation. What do you think ?
It should be the second Panzer division , Geyr . Yet is this .
The enemy disembark quickly airborne divisions with anti-tank guns .
That's why the tanks no avail the coast, with the enemy in the back.
The enemy does your tanks to reach coast and can build their beachhead .
How do you protect our tanks from their sjöartilleri ?
We bury them.
- Bury them? - Yes.
Is not their strength in combination of armor , firepower and mobility?
During the campaign against France was traveling s spökdivision not fast enough.
Führer has expressly approved my plans.
He has not decided yet.
Until then reads armored divisions under the Commander in the West.
Then we can end this now.
It did not go well in Africa. Now he wants to be something here.
Get him to see reason .
He can not prevent an attack with infantry hiding behind tanks.
- Field Marshal knows what he's doing. - Really?
Actually , he has never been more than a viable division commander .
So it is with the Führer. The last who meets him is always right.
Let's go a round , Speidel .
Rundstedt is old and tired. He gave up a long time ago .
And Guderian has been a yes men .
Take the consequences.
- Take matters into your own hands. - What do you mean?
Request to be commander in chief in the West. Give Hitler an ultimatum .
- He needs you. You are well-liked. - Should I threaten Führer ?
- If you want to prevent the invasion. - So, you achieve nothing with the Führer.
Less you , recognize the people and the Fuhrer that the war can not be won .
Quiet, Speidel . I want you here as chief of staff a while.
- What liberally to let them stay here. - Thoughtless , you mean ?
The French aristocracy fear the Bolsheviks more than we do.
Count worship the Fuhrer . That kid man is his son.
As old as our Manfred.
Our son is air defense aide in Ulm.
Recently , he wanted to join the Waffen- SS.
I forbade him to do so.
Now you may ask , but ...
You know, I 've heard terrible stories .
If the mass executions . and massacres of Jews in the occupied territories .
You were on the eastern front . Can you confirm this?
It also takes place in France. They yet deporting Jews.
SS searching through for hidden Jewish children .
- How do you know? - In Paris, army management , there ...
... those who do not find themselves in it .
So yeah ... You have to get used to the lightning and thunder to be a soldier .
Our Manfred cried too when he was photographed .
Stülpnagel . Speidel cheated well not here me to calm screaming babies?
A MANSION NEAR PARIS 14 MAJ 1944
In case of extreme emergency must forcing Hitler to yield.
- What do you mean by "force" ? - To arrest him .
And bring him to justice for the crimes he has committed in the name of the people .
Mr von Stülpnagel , what you are proposing is a military coup.
Do you think you can find a single general ready for that?
A group of prominent men at our disposal .
There have been coup plans even earlier.
Some yielded their to liberate Germany from Hitler.
Daring to their lives ?
- An attack , then? - Not if it can be avoided .
Know all about it?
- Only in Berlin , the details . - It is high treason.
Hitler betray long Germany.
Closes we are not at peace with the Allies Now , the Russians take Berlin in the autumn.
Although you have sworn an oath . Do not forget it .
Now he runs to the Führer .
How long have you known these plans ?
A while.
You know what is required of me the obedient soldier.
Do what you must do.
Damn it .
Give it here . It can be mended .
FRANCE , THE CHANNEL COAST 20 MAJ 1944
Now .
Watch out ! They come, they come ! Here we go ! It begins!
Miss. Damn, then.
Speidel , dammit . What is happening?
Have Englishmen landed ?
- A British raid averted near Calais . - On the Channel coast ?
A British military officers were arrested. He was handed over to the Gestapo.
- In Paris ? - You can be the chain of command.
SS HEADQUARTERS IN PARIS 21 MAJ 1944
His squad would blow up coastal battery.
Good, Lieutenant General . We'll take him.
- What ? - Rommel want to meet him.
You can command the order. he to be executed as soon as he talked .
- He certainly has not spoken yet. - Within 12 hours , you know ...
- ... Where and when the invasion occurs. - Certainly. But we have our methods.
You tell enough for me if your methods sometime.
Feel it . - Take him away .
Watch out .
- Here is the British lieutenant . - Take off his handcuffs .
How is my old friend Montgomery? - Translate .
- He understands you. - How the Brits want war now?
- And what was there in Africa? - Tjafs . Compared to what awaits .
Have a seat .
Well , Lieutenant ...
Actually , we have the same enemy .
And he 's in Russia.
- Why do we fight not side by side? - It would be hard .
We Brits think that certain things you Germans do, is disgusting.
- What do you mean? - The way you treat Jews .
It's politics. We are soldiers. We have nothing to do with politics .
That your Führer exterminate an entire people , is it just politics?
- It could change. - It's too late , Field Marshal .
- Countess . - What will happen to him ?
He's way in war camps for British prisoners.
And command the order, then?
- What do you know about it? - You hear a lot.
- I'll make sure nothing happens to him . - But can you do it?
- Yes , I'm the commander in chief . - There are many in France.
And then there's the SS.
Countess . Wait a minute.
Excuse me ... but can you get hold of those here in Paris?
- For my wife's birthday. - You have good taste.
S uncle hope that we can beat back the enemy.
What do you hope ?
- Who are you ? - We are lost , whatever.
Given our fortifications, morale of the troops -
- Our new armament and the weapons we have been given -
- We look forward to coming times with great calm .
And ...
... do not worry about how it should go. It's fine .
And I do not that the British are returning for a second time .
- Was it good? - Excellent . Very convincing.
Good .
I heard that a British soldier was captured in Calais.
- Do you believe that the invasion happens there ? - The place where you least expect it .
Then they learn to come to me .
They go to church on Sunday , will set sail on Monday and will be here on Tuesday.
- Why do you think that? - My birthday is on Tuesday.
- My wife too. - There you are .
From the high command , Colonel General Jodl .
- Hell . - Bad news ?
Führer gives me three armored divisions . The rest I ask later.
Should I send a written request when the enemy lands ?
I have to meet Hitler.
He gets misinformation of the bad guys around him.
- Do you really believe that? - You and your friends do not believe it .
But what do you expect ? That I passively watching the chaos ?
I do not remember as commander who led his soldiers to slaughter.
- There are other options . - I do not believe in them.
Put me through to the Führer's headquarters. The Fuehrer 's adjutant . I can not wait.
Do you like shoes? A birthday present for my wife.
Very elegant . She'll be happy enough.
It will be storm and very cloudy until 10 June.
So you can safely go .
- A good trip. - Keep track of everything here.
- Monsieur , le comte . - Pour votre épouse .
- To your wife a happy birthday. - Oh, merci .
- Au revoir . - Au revoir .
One thing is certain . invasion set enemy facing a crushing down ...
There you are , Manfred.
- Good day , Father. - Good day , my son.
- You look good in uniform. - Can I still take it ?
He must be back tonight . He got permission , but did not .
Very good . I'm proud of you. Go to your room, we'll see you later.
He is sorry that you were against he joined the Waffen- SS.
I have not changed my mind .
I'm glad you could come.
I'm going to the Führer . Problems in France.
Put yourself . You seem a little irritable.
Lu, do you remember where as Strölin recently told ?
- That the gas kill Jews in the East? - Please stop .
Strölin a Nazi and Lord Mayor of Stuttgart.
Although he has sent Jews to the East. Why does he say so ?
It happens even in France, before my eyes .
I thought there were isolated cases.
But those at the top are not decent .
What do you mean by "those at the top" ?
You know where we live , what was here before.
Yes.
- A jew boarding school. - Then we should move.
Do not believe that.
We are not preventing him from speaking in radio , he gets to the masses .
We must be as eloquent as Hitler.
Are we not, it does not help with an attack .
- Yes, Colonel ? - A radio monitors ...
perceived ... the end of the message.
Colonel General von Salmuth has set the whole army on alert in Calais.
Should I alert the seventh in Normandy ?
Call Rundstedts staff . Let them decide.
So here we go ...
It's probably just the usual hysteria .
NORMANDY 6 JUNI 1944 , 01:00
There they are. I knew it.
Notify Rommel's staff it starts now.
- What is the situation in Calais ? - The country set there too.
With cargo glider . The two prisoners there will be more land subsidence .
We can send 21 to Normandy.
Commander of the 21st unresponsive. He is in Paris with his chief of staff.
- What ? - General Speidel . Phone .
Yes ?
Roger that. Very good . Thank you. And happy birthday , sir.
It was Marcks . The British are attacking with straw dolls.
But he thinks he can handle it on their own.
- What do we do now ? - Yes, what? We go to bed.
Normandy, 06:00
ONLY ON THE LIGHT OF WINDOW AND DOORS ARE CLOSED
E ARMY Karens PICKET
British sjöartilleri . Churchill happy birthday .
OMAHA BEACH NORMANDY , 06:30
Rommel HOME In MEN LINGEN , 09:00
Armed Forces ordered me to deliver these flowers to your wife.
With heartfelt congratulations from Führer .
Take good care of them , Karolina . They are from the Führer.
Commander Loistl , Army Group B.
Sure . Just a moment .
You have a telephone, Field Marshal .
It must be Fuhrer headquarters.
Yes ? Speidel ? What gives?
Have they landed ? Where? How does our counterattack ?
Let division attack directly . Do not wait for reinforcements. Seizures.
- I'm sorry. - It can not be helped.
- Now, in all cases the waiting over . - Yes.
Take care, Lu . Take care.
They do not fit , Karolina .
Rommel HEADQUARTERS , 22:30
We are the General Staff of the bunker.
I hope it looks better now.
The enemy has already landed 150,000 heavily armed soldiers.
They control 130 square kilometers. British 6th Airborne Division -
- Have taken the bridge over the Orne .
They also crushed our artillery Merville , albeit with heavy losses .
- Is that all? - The information is scarce.
Radio traffic disturbed by the enemy.
The French have sabotaged telephone lines and roads maintenance .
We must expect a second major offensive .
They have darkened the coast at Dover.
Say it out loud , Speidel . You have failed .
Fuhrer HEADQUARTERS In MARGIVAL , 17 JUNI 1944
Field Marshal Erna von Rundstedt and Rommel .
Thanks for coming . Go ahead and sit down.
I must say I am speechless over your local masters failures.
The armed forces were taken by surprise with his pants down .
That says a lot about the condition of your soldiers .
That's the enemy propaganda.
Call it what you want. But the landing was not hindered .
- What you assured would happen. - The forces fighting sacrificing.
That we could not prevent the invasion is anti-aircraft and naval wrong.
The Army has made ??a superhuman effort in an unequal battle.
But the enemy's superiority in the air and that their fleet had to work undisturbed
- Made it impossible to fight the enemy as planned.
It is unfortunate that no ... for over - command knew the situation at the front.
Instead believed in the enemy's propaganda.
It is crucial to maintain Cherbourg . If not, take the enemy Normandy
- And maybe all of France.
We must choose between keeping ... Cherbourg ... and to prevent the enemy .
We can not do both.
Do you have the same opinion , von Rundstedt ?
We must give up the rigid system by Peninsula
- And embark on an orderly retreat to the port and fortress .
And at Caen, in front of Orne, we should avoid ...
We will not know anything! It applies to stand up, hold on and die!
Designate a particular skilled commander Cherbourg .
Show field groomsmen how devastating our retaliation is the enemy.
Since yesterday , we have continually fired V1 missiles against London.
All bar one ton of explosives .
We have received many great hits .
According to our agents can handle civil population not much more, and ...
A hostile bomb dressing approaching our airspace .
My Führer , we should probably go to the shelter.
And now ? We need to tell that the situation is hopeless.
- He only listens to you. - You are the commander in chief in the West.
My power is just enough to move my guards from left to right.
My Führer , you know I am your faithful servant.
- Can I ? - Have a seat .
Do not you think ...
... it's time to consider other options?
- What do you mean? - To negotiate .
No longer want to negotiate with me.
The enemy thinks obliterate Germany.
Now we only have each individual fanatical resistance.
Are you prepared for that?
Are you prepared for it, Rommel ?
Yes.
" Where knowledge and ability ends and intuition takes over " -
- " In the sensory perception ability and inspiration " -
- "Are general's leadership. It possesses Rommel . "
You certainly amuses you .
- General Field Marshal . - Good criticism?
Here you are.
Fuehrer wants to keep Cherbourg .
And stand west of the Orne .
Begin the necessary preparations , Speidel .
Can General Marcks do a diversion ?
General Marcks killed in a hostile air attack .
Do you want today's total loss figures?
No, it is not necessary.
Gentlemen .
GERMAN POSITION NEAR CAEN 20 JUNI 1944
Once you have taken the height , you protect road to Bayeux. Best of luck.
Thank you, Field Marshal .
- Let the Brits have a fiery ! - Yes, Field Marshal !
Good .
- Good luck. - Thank you, Field Marshal .
- Back , Daniel. We must return. - It is madness . We must here .
Oh well ...
Well, Daniel. Run.
Who's there? Come forward . Hello?
Bonsoir .
Sorry. It was not supposed to scare you.
- What are the Countess this? - I often come here . It's beautiful.
Our soldiers may think you are partisan, or British agent .
- Maybe I am. - Then I might look up.
- I would be a great trophy for the British. - Yes. Desert Fox .
Long time no see . Now I am only he who could not stop the invasion .
- I'm sorry you do it? - I am a soldier. Do not forget it .
I 'll tell the men that you are walking around up here.
Dear Lu . I'm fine .
I must not lose heart . Although much hope has been dashed .
Yes ?
The Russians have broken through Army Group Mitte.
Seven German divisions have surrendered. The front is in dissolution .
It's probably out of the east.
Yes.
It will be nice when next week is over.
There was one more thing.
- Where is it? - Småstaden Oradour , near Limoges .
a SS- Panzer division leveled it to the ground.
All residents were killed ... which 450 women and children.
- Revenge of the abducted SS officer . - How do you know this?
Army management . Stülpnagel have already protested.
Hitler has banned the responsible officer successor to justice.
Really?
Good night.
Poor bastards . Mom said I should thank God that I ended up with you.
- Why? - With you , nothing can happen to me.
The new quartermaster , Colonel Finckh , has come now.
- He wants to present itself . - Good, I will soon.
- Field Marshal ... - What is it?
Führer want you to do a dissipative attacks against Americans in Cherbourg .
He wants to 7th Army, advancing on the west flank.
Explain that we are only able to keep our defense line in western Normandy.
The front is inappropriate for an attack.
Today telephoned General Marcks brother.
He wanted to know exactly to the minute when the general died .
Why ?
At 11 o'clock that day fell general's photo down from the wall of his brother.
- And ? - General met ten forty-five .
- Exactly 11 , he died . Unbelievable, huh ? - Do you believe in miracles ?
It just makes Hitler. LEASTWAYS what the course of the war .
"Do not say bridgehead , but the last part of France as the enemy occupying. "
Cherbourg fall within three days.
Within four weeks of the enemy breaks through and storms to the Reich frontier .
We can only pray that the Allies is faster than the Russians.
- You are not alone in thinking so . - I think everyone here agrees .
Not true, Dr. Speidel ?
Hitler is furious. He can not draw conclusions or make decisions.
Just saying : "To the last man ," gives nothing , except a disaster.
The idea of ??an attack on Cherbourg is pure idiocy .
You 're the only ELIGIBLE Germany . To end the war .
- There are others who are for war. - Then it is they who must be shot .
If it is not possible otherwise .
Good God, Speidel . You 're a true warrior .
Battle of Cherbourg ,
- the enemy has devastated large parts of the city ...
On the odd factories and bases fluttering banner of resistance yet .
yet waged hot , bloody battles on city streets.
Rommel HEADQUARTERS 25 JUNI 1944
From General von Schlieben : " The final battle of Cherbourg . "
" We attacked with tanks. Where is fly in aid? "
" Flight Over The aid can not penetrate hostile roadblocks . "
" The Fuhrer's orders , you shall fight to the last bullet . May God be with you. "
Fuhrer's orders were to the last man . Should you really undermine it?
- Male or bullet, what is the difference? - Kula means surrender, not dead.
I hope that the general interpretation of the just like that.
Armed Forces in Cherbourg entered in the German hero story ,
- and made ??himself immortal .
In large bunkers , there were men ,
- which had been bricked in , and defended through portholes .
They did run out of their last bullets and then blew themselves up in the air.
If a nation at war five years ,
- can perform such acts ...
- Are you sure? He travels to Germany? - Yes.
He was directed to Obersalzberg .
How can you be so well informed , Duchess ?
I take care of my job. Did you shoot yours.
Do you really want me to do this ?
Thank you.
You do realize headquarters seeking a scapegoat for Cherbourg case?
- You or me. - I declare that the war should end .
- The whole world is clearly against us. - What would you have me do?
- That you do not remain silent . Stay with me. - You are right .
We sacrifice both of us.
He will give way again . Just wait .
Obersalzberg 29 JUNI 1944
It's six o'clock . They let us wait.
Are you here von Kluge ? How nice that you recovered you so quickly after the accident.
Thank you. Führer asked me to assess the situation in the East.
Excuse me, but my plane to Berlin waiting.
Attention on deck . Look ahead .
Make your statement .
My Führer , I'm here as commander of Army Group B.
It's probably the last chance I have -
- To describe the situation on the western front for those of you who are responsible for the people.
- I'll start with the political situation . - You manifest your only in military affairs.
My responsibility towards Germany forcing me into it .
I did not ask for your personal opinion about world politics.
Please adhere solely to the purely military .
You know how disappointed I am that you did not manage -
- To attack the Cotentin Peninsula . Cherbourg had not had to fall.
The side with the best maintenance roads always win battles .
Montgomery maintenance pathways was more vulnerable than yours.
But the advantage you lost because you were so hesitant .
Now we have to lock the British in Caen, implement a counterattack -
- And let the enemy bleed to death in Normandy.
National Secretary , you get the generals' reports .
Question Hauser or Dietrich . They know how hopeless the situation is.
Mein Führer , I can not go from here without having talked about Germany with you.
Can we talk privately ?
It's probably best that you leave the room.
Should we stay at your house in Mr Lingen ?
... where we are . And we do not give after an inch without a fight.
And if we do that , we turn back now!
We are so happy we know since yesterday
- that our Colonel-General Rommel ...
General Field Marshal ? Should we stay at your home in Mr Lingen ?
I see you again?
Take care of your mother, Manfred.
Rommel HEADQUARTERS 30 JUNI 1944
- Well, Speidel ? - The front remains.
For a while , yes.
I am under no illusions, Speidel .
- Next time it will be me. - Rundstedt , then?
Just as weak as ever.
He'll follow orders , regardless of how they are corked .
- All the facts are clear . - Hitler did not care. He doubt ...
... the enemy's superiority in the air and devastating sjöartilleri -
- As well as our maintenance problems .
He does not believe us , but we should believe him.
I simply say : " V -1".
Field Marshal ...
Leave your command . It will take effect in the people.
- You're still our most popular soldier. - Those at the top do not allow it .
They expect probably that I 'll die a heroic death ... at the front.
But I can help a little .
My family is prepared for it.
You must take care of him. He is soldier dog. He will never be more civil .
It is certainly the .
Rommel . Yes ?
I see. Thank you for informing me .
Rundstedt receive the Knight's Cross and leave office .
And you?
- I remain. - As Rundstedts substitute?
No, Field Marshal Kluge becomes the new commander in chief in the West.
Right on !
Rommel HEADQUARTERS 3 JULI 1944
- How are you, Speidel ? - Good . And you?
The British attack with great force. It takes great manpower to hold out .
We need them in Saint -Lô, to prevent Americans breakthrough.
We abandon neither Caen or bridgehead .
We do not give an inch without a fight. Führer's orders are clear.
Fuhrer not aware mode . The order to hold out is devastating.
From now , you are getting , and everyone else, get used to execute orders.
- What do you mean? - You tend to ignore your superiors ...
... and run to the Führer instead.
Gentlemen, leave me alone with Field Marshal awhile.
You have apparently forgotten I am Field Marshal .
I want reports from all masters on the front.
And statistics on the enemy naval range artillery and ammunition.
Go to the front! Then you can see for yourself the hostile sjöartilleriets force.
It is noticeable you most have led a division .
And you have not fought against the British.
Heavy weapons , armor and artillery stationed -
- Beyond the hostile sjöartilleriets range.
Artillery at Cagny and Émiéville . And behind those tanks.
To keep the enemy occupied.
- How long ? - In the best case , three weeks.
Until they break through. So we have three weeks.
- For what? - To find other solutions.
- Field Marshal . - What ? I'm dead tired .
Do you remember Colonel von Hofacker ? In Stülpnagels staff .
- He wants to talk to you. Tomorrow . - About what?
I am here on my cousin's behalf; Count von Stauffenberg .
You might know that he now manage the reserve army ?
Yes. Has he recovered from their injuries ?
As much as possible , yes.
He wants your assessment the war situation in the West.
It should also reserve army know.
How long ?
Three weeks. Max six . Unless miracles happen .
Do you think that the war is lost?
What you really want me ?
- Will you stand to Germany's favor? - I do.
Another Germany. With another government.
Put your hands .
- Halt! Stay there . - Put your hands up ! Do not move .
WEEKLY NEWS
Tanks advancing .
on Normandy's fertile lands harvests death terrible loss.
The German pansarammunitionen penetrates through the hardest steel .
around Caen and Bayeux rages a heavy battle.
The decisive battle for Europe has begun ...
General Field Marshal Rommel !
I have read your progress .
- And ? - I apologize .
I tell the Fuhrer I look as seriously as you state .
The Americans soon break through. In some areas , all men dead.
- Just tell me is no longer enough . - What do you suggest?
The Fuhrer would negotiate peace . Otherwise , we open the front.
- Would you give Hitler an ultimatum ? - Call it what you want.
I give him one last chance . If he does not , I act .
- Can I count on you ? - Do you not hope .
- Hitler allow themselves to be impressed . - We still have an obligation to act.
Do you accept that my chief of staff writing this to Hitler?
First, we consult with the commanders , especially SS Generals .
- Without them you can not . - I will send them my intentions .
- Does he or does he not ? - What ?
That one is planning a coup d'etat in Berlin.
- How do you know? - General Speidel said.
He insinuated that for me. Although your name was mentioned then.
I know nothing .
Position the front worsens by the day . 97,000 man has been killed ...
Although troop material losses are unusually high -
- And have only partially replaced .
... of which 2,360 officers.
That means , on average, 2500 to 3000 to ...
A total of about 10 000 men.
As the fighting has shown , will the hostile stake -
- That part of crush even the bravest of troops -
- Leading to loss of people , weapons and ...
We have problems .
- Heil Hitler, Obersturmbannführer ! - Heil Hitler.
- Heil Hitler ! - What do I owe the honor ?
- A French saboteur is hiding here. - In my headquarters ?
Countess . Count nephews.
Count's family has my protection . Who maintains it?
We grabbed a British agent yesterday. He has unequivocally pointed to her.
- You must be kidding. - I understand that news shocks you.
But you should be grateful.
They had planned to assassinate you.
Stand species Fuhrer . This teaches interest you.
I guess it does not the army group's radio.
- SS has gripped the people of the village. - The Countess ?
No.
Where did we ?
" The troops are fighting heroically all over. "
... but still approaching the uneven battle ... an end.
According to me it is necessary ... to draw political conclusions from the situation .
"According to me it is necessary to draw political conclusions from the situation . "
- Should you send it? - You are right . It's too risky .
I talk to him.
We want to have peace negotiations.
" Politics " is a loaded word for Hitler. He believes that Providence rescues him .
- Delete the word "political" . - Good . I'm sending it to Kluge today.
- Field Marshal ... - What is it now, when ?
How much told von Hofacker ?
- What do you mean? - Initiate he s in the plans ?
He asked if I could think of a new state and military power. Plans ?
I do not know . Only a small circle know how the coup designed.
If you prosecute Hitler , I'm with . But I support no attacks.
There I have not changed my mind , General.
PARIS 16 JULI 1944
He knows nothing about the attack . Hofacker said nothing about it.
He believes that we should prosecute Hitler.
Hofacker said Rommel stood available to the peace negotiations.
For peace negotiations. Not for an attack .
He must realize that it will be violent .
" Fierce " does not murder.
Gentlemen ...
We may not be made ??for it, but it must be done . With or without Rommel .
- Hitler faced with an ultimatum . - What ? !
Does he not agree to peace negotiations , opens Rommel and Kluge front.
When Hitler may ultimatum depositing he Rommel . Or worse.
- We risk Valkyrias success. - " Valkyrie " ?
Stauffenberg's people have a plan, if national emergency imposed.
Reserve Army takes over power the Interior.
the condition is an attempt on Hitler.
As plotters appears not as authors ?
No. It will appear as a coup of party members and SS.
The plan enables all departments, though they are not involved.
They act according to the emergency plan Hitler himself has blessed .
We just need a reason to enable it.
- Ingenious . - The front is the only uncertain.
Just because we contacted Rommel . The soldiers respect him enormously.
- Should he just be propaganda ? - Rommel factor .
- Goebbels made ??him a folk hero. - That we use now.
Now you have a unique opportunity to make people a really great service.
It is marshal certainly aware .
Yes ?
- General Field Marshal . - Good morning. Something new ?
according Aldinger go ye to Dietrich today.
- Yes, to the front in Caen. - Should you discuss your plans?
Of course .
He is an inveterate National Socialist . He tells SS.
I know who he is, but we have no choice.
- Otherwise, the Waffen -SS war. - Why not ...
- ... Tell Himmler and Goebbels ? - Dietrich is experienced . He understands .
Greve Schwerin armor division is prepared to disarm the SS.
- Determines I still here? ! - Of course .
The enemy is still in the West, do not forget it .
NORMANDY , THE ROAD TO livarot 17 JULI 1944
- Did you see the people? What was it? - Respect ?
No, fear. They do not know what to expect.
- What do you think? - That we become a British colony.
- And not a part of Stalin's Bolshevism. - Enemy Plan! Eight.
Give it here .
Do you see the way there? Attempts to reach the forest. Quick!
Hurry up! Accelerate !
Field Marshal !
Field Marshal .
Help me! Hurry up!
Hurry up! Come on .
PARIS Kluges HEADQUARTERS
Blumentritt .
Just a moment . - Field Marshal ?
- Yes ? - General Speidel .
Yes, Kluge here.
Yes. Roger that.
No, I tell the high command .
Blumentritt .
Rommel is badly wounded. They do not know if he survives .
- It was taken only it! - Call up the command.
What happened to Rommel's letter ? Have we sent it to the Führer than ?
- No, you wanted to add it . - Well, yes ...
Archive it for so long.
He has a skull fracture . it is a miracle that he survived the night .
The Führer has given me the command here , until Rommel has recovered .
- Can I count on your support, Speidel ? - Of course .
I set up my fighter place here in the castle.
When I reach the front faster.
- Blumentritt replace me in Paris. - Of course .
That's all for now.
Yeah, right ... Since this morning , attacking our enemy positions in Caen.
The bombing was the 16th anti-aircraft and 272 text Infantry Division -
- Which was along the front , totally obliterated .
- Keeps the front stalls ? - So far .
What about Daniel?
He's dead.
He did not . He died in the night.
- You have received a telegram from the Führer. - Well ...
"My best wishes for a speedy recovery . "
- Signed by Adolf Hitler. - That's it?
Yes, Field Marshal .
Stauffenberg is still set to it . He flies to headquarters tomorrow.
Kluge has moved th Panzer division to the front.
- Now we can no longer stop the SS. - We hope to Kluge .
How's ultimatum ? Have high command responded ?
- It no longer refers to the ultimatum . - Has not been sent yet?
Kluge has been informed long . He has met with the conspirators .
I do not think he is ready to peace negotiations with the Allies.
- There will be no negotiations , General. - Why not ?
The Allies accept a surrender Only if we give up even in the East.
What does that mean?
The fact that we show the world that we dare revolt against these criminals .
General!
Countess ? What are you doing here?
The hotel interests my colleagues. And Rommel stabsbil falls in the eye.
How is the field marshal ?
I can betray you.
SS has taken hostages in the village. I should surrender myself .
Some of them are children. Can you do something ?
- Unfortunately, I have no influence. - I understand . Best of luck.
What will you do ?
- I will surrender myself . - Do not do it .
- Things are changing faster than you think. - Really?
One should never give up hope.
night of July 19 shot fighter over northern France down
- 30 British bombers.
artillery at the channel coast fired on a destroyers that exploded and sank.
Normandy attacked enemy Caen from the east and southeast ,
- with the support of armored artillery and bombers ,
- without achieving the desired breakthrough .
- It is Finckh . - Zossens ministry .
- Is everything ready for exercise? - Yes.
SAINT -LO IN NORMANDY , 14:00
Hostile thrusts in the south ,
- and fierce U.S. attack in northwest
- caused large losses.
Attack Aircraft supported Land Forces Defense
- and eliminated ten enemy tanks.
16 enemy aircraft shot down in aerial combat. The night of Thurs ...
- It is Finckh . - exercise is completed.
Right.
Gestapo carried out a coup in Berlin.
An attempt on the Führer. He's dead.
Witzleben and Beck has formed an interim government .
Who told you that ?
Our military commander , Stülpnagel .
SS and Gestapo carried out a coup in Berlin.
The Führer is dead.
All of the security in Paris and the leaders of the SS must be grasped .
Here are the latest plan sketches across all their offices.
- All clear ? - Yes !
Hofacker . Just a moment .
- The General Speidel . - Stülpnagel .
Field Marshal von Kluge wants to meet you the battle command center at 20.
An important meeting. Thank you.
- What did he say? - That he will .
Yes! What is it?
A remote- written message from Field Marshal Keitel .
- What does he ? - To Hitler alive.
Find out the truth . It must go.
Sure .
Tell me, Speidel ... Did you and Rommel about this?
No.
Next, a repeat of an important message
- which aired this afternoon.
Aldinger ... Lower the sound on the radio.
Today conducted a bombing v Führer .
SS HEADQUARTERS IN PARIS ; 20:30
- What now , sir ? - We are here to arrest you.
- In general Stülpnagels orders. - Excuse me?
Come on , out. Out with you!
- Gruppenführer . Your gun , please. - This you will regret.
Rommel HEADQUARTERS , 20:40
Now that the Führer is dead, we must make decisions. What will you do ?
Settle down , gentlemen.
My lords , We have received conflicting information .
Half an hour ago I spoke the phone with General Stief .
He is currently at Mamry -
- And have talked to some officers who left the Wolf's Lair today.
They say Hitler survived the bomb attack .
What takes place in Berlin is not conclusive.
The decisions made here in France is very important.
For Germany's future sake, abandon Hitler and suffered the liberation of the West.
Make the Field Marshal Rommel had done - put an end to the bloody murders.
Do not end even worse. Prevent German history's worst disaster.
Yes ? Just a moment .
General Warlimont , the Führer's headquarters.
The Kluge .
Roger that. I am very relieved.
General Warlimont state that the Führer is the best of health .
The attack failed , that is.
- But , I thought you knew. - No ... I had no idea.
Gentlemen, dinner is served .
Yes. Make gentlemen.
- Field Marshal , I need to talk to you. - Are we ready?
What ? !
The entire security and group Führer Oberg be arrested .
Or have already been arrested. On Stülpnagels orders.
He did it without consulting any or inform their commander in chief.
It's arbitrary conduct unprecedented !
Refer to that the order is immediately withdrawn .
The facts speak for themselves.
Your word and your honor is in danger.
Army's honor and the fate of millions is in your hands .
Well ... if the pig had died , so ...
If I were you , I would try to escape as civilian.
Try to jump off .
A little dab ambitious , unscrupulous foolish and criminal officers ,
- forged a plot to eliminate me and the leadership of the armed forces.
The bomb was placed out of Stauffenberg and exploded two meters away from me.
injured many of my co-workers difficult. One died.
myself am completely unharmed , except a shake of the hand, a few scratches ...
A ROAD NEAR VERDUN , 21 JULI 1944
I go to the lake. I must go on the legs. Hold at the next intersection .
- A cigarette ? - Yes , thank you.
Where were you , Rommel ? Where have you been?
It has been mentioned name .
The name Rommel was among them.
Thank you for coming , sir. But everything is already settled.
I take full responsibility for revolt here in Paris.
Just Stülpnagel and I was initiated.
All the others were unaware .
I apologize . But I have no regrets .
Names mentioned . Even yours.
It is enough if one call you had with Hofacker July 9.
I do not remember .
It may not be incriminating .
You were asked about your assessment of state ... and you gave an honest answer .
How does it look on the front?
s 3rd Army broke through at Avranches yesterday.
I do not want to be in your shoes .
Heil, mein Führer .
Read this, Keitel .
That's what that Hofacker said if Rommel .
He has talked to him ... on the attack .
If it is true , Keitel ...
it is a ... of my biggest disappointments ever.
But I can not hurt the people who contact him so highly , by prosecuting him.
Rommel HOME IN MEN LINGEN August 8, 1944
- General Field Marshal . - Loistl . What nice.
Jesus ...
As long as you do not wear the head during arm , it's not so bad. Come on .
FRANCE August 17, 1944
- Go ahead. - A private letter to you from the Führer.
You are asked to come to Berlin and report .
To report ?
The Americans have already crossed the Seine with two divisions.
Yes, Speidel ...
That's all for me.
- Nice to meet you , Colonel. How are you? - Thank you good.
I must speak to you in private.
Go in and tell your mom we have guests.
- What gives? - Field Marshal Kluge 's death.
He was called to Berlin, but took poison.
General Speidel considered you ought to know that.
Yes. Thank you.
Do we know why?
We assume that Hitler gave him the debt for frontal collapse.
All flees from us , Field Marshal .
Are not you ashamed , you wretch -
- Over to you , in the most miserable manner , betrayed the Führer ?
I regret only I did not perform the attack .
- Then it had not failed. - It was ... Corresponding ?
Be quiet , Mr. Freissler . Today, it is my head.
In a year , it applies your head .
- What it was based on ? - Nothing at all . It came totally unexpected.
I will await further orders in Germany .
- Who will replace you in the army group? - General Krebs .
Although Blumentritt replaced and shall report in Berlin.
There is nothing unusual , Speidel .
They are looking for scapegoats for the fiasco on the front.
The conspirators from Paris sentenced a week ago .
Horrible . Even Stülpnagel .
Hofacker has apparently not been executed yet.
- They might still need him. - Do you have anything to fear ?
FREUDENSTADT September 7, 1944
Good morning, Frau Speidel . Is your husband at home?
SECURITY MINISTRY IN BERLIN September 20, 1944
- Good morning , General. - Colonel .
He is not anymore.
Herr von Hofacker has just its weak life left .
Well, Herr von Hofacker .
Tell Dr. Speidel what you have told us.
That you 've talked to him on attack plans.
And that even Field Marshal Rommel was informed about them.
No. Neither marshal or Lieutenant-General was informed.
If I 've said it ...
... I must have been ... temporary memory confused.
Mr Lingen, October 1. Dear Frau Speidel .
Your husband's fate touches me deeply.
Especially since you have not heard anything from him for over three weeks ...
... worries me a lot. I put a high value on your make-
- As excellent, skilled and ambitious chief of staff.
I'll write to the Führer today and put in a good word for him.
" Mein Führer , you know I put down all the power and ability " -
- "In the Battle of France in 1940, in Africa 1941-1943 " -
- 'In Italy in 1943 and on the western front in 1944. "
" My only goal is to fight for and win for your new Germany. "
" Heil, mein Führer . E point Rommel . "
Maybe he was informed, yes .
- But he did not participate actively . - Knowledge is betrayal .
According to Lieutenant General Speidel he -
- Via Hofacker , posted by General von Stülpnagel -
- Knowledge of the plan the attack 20 July 1944 .
He informed Field Marshal Rommel .
To Rommel did not keep information Furthermore , he did not know .
I believe General Lieutenant's apology be unlikely.
It was his duty to self- report the attack plan.
Especially as Rommel must have said that he did not intend to report.
The Führer is of the opinion Speidels that debt can not be doubted.
Gentlemen . If General Speidel claims -
- That he has informed Rommel on the attack -
- The prosecution must disprove it .
This is a sophistry attempt to acquit Dr Speidel .
And even then ...
The matter was so serious that Speidel not should rely on marshal .
If there is anything a soldier be able to rely on ...
so ... is it to his superiors doing their duty .
I hope you realize what this means for Rommel .
MEN LINGEN October 14, 1944
WARNING HALT
You are accused of having been involved the assassination of the Fuhrer .
- Who maintains it? - We have testimonials ...
... by General von Stülpnagel ... Colonel von Hofacker ...
- ... And General Speidel . - Speidel ?
He testified that he had informing you of the attack plans.
I think not on .
Well ...
I forgot about me. I'll take the consequences.
Are you kind and leave us alone in a few minutes ?
In recognition for your great efforts ... for the kingdom ...
, your betrayal ... be withheld from the people.
When you 're ready ...
A gun I do not trust .
I brought you something acting on three seconds.
- What will happen to my family ? - The liability waivers .
A state funeral is prepared.
Your wife will get full pension the widow of a Field Marshal .
Thank you.
May I now say goodbye to my wife and son ?
Of course .
What's the matter?
quarter , I am dead.
Come, my son.
- Aldinger , now online here . - Yes, the field marshal .
I am innocent .
I was not involved in the attack .
I have all my life served their country .
And done my best .
Health my peers . Especially my beloved Africans.
Manfred , they do not spare Speidel either.
Take care of Frau Speidel also .
Good luck , son.
a state funeral , the people say goodbye to a very valiant general .
In his daily orders Fuhrer said that a of our best army officer has died .
His name is in the people's struggle for their destiny become synonymous
- with outstanding bravery and undaunted courage.
Residents of a southern German town line the great soldier's last route.
The official cause of death was that Rommel died of his injuries.
His wife and son did not reveal that he was forced to take poison.
Speidel survived in prison.
He was liberated in April 1945 of the French army .
Twelve years later, he became NATO the first German army officer .