Martin Unrein


Martin Unrein was a German general during World War II who commanded several divisions.

Career

Unrein enlisted the German army in the final stages of World War I and then joined the re-established Reichswehr, where held various regimental posts through the 1930s. In September 1940, he was promoted to lieutenant-colonel and assigned to OKW. On 15 September 1941, he was appointed to command a motorcycle battalion in the 6th Panzer Division. The battalion was almost destroyed fighting outside Moscow, and Unrein was court-martialled, but was absolved of all blame.
On 10 September 1943, he was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. On 29 October of that year, he was appointed to command the 14th Panzer Division, which was shortly to be sent to the Eastern Front. On 26 June 1944, he was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves. On 11 February, he was promoted to command the III SS Panzer Corps and remained with the Corps until 5 March. On 4 April he was appointed to command the newly formed Panzer Division Clausewitz.

Awards and decorations