Encyclopaedia Britannica Presents: WWII Infographic Explainers: German Chain of Command in Western Europe

The morning of June 6th, 1944, marked a complex operation for the German defense during World War II. The German command structure was inefficient, with many commanders reporting directly to Adolf Hitler, including Herman Gerring and Erwin Rommel. This lack of coordination disrupted German defense efforts and facilitated the Allied forces' penetration of Fortress Europe.

What was the nature of the morning of June 6th, 1944, for the German defense?

• It was a straightforward affair.

• It was a complex and challenging situation.

• It was a peaceful morning.

• It was a victorious day for Germany.

Who was the head of the German Air Force during World War II?

• Gerd von Ronstadt

• Adolf Hitler

• Erwin Rommel

• Herman Gerring

Which German commander was known for operating independently?

• Adolf Hitler

• Erwin Rommel

• Gerd von Ronstadt

• Herman Gerring

What was the effect of multiple commanders reporting directly to Hitler?

• It led to a German victory.

• It disrupted the German defense.

• It had no impact on the defense.

• It strengthened the German defense.

How did the disjointed command structure affect the Allied invasion?

• It stopped the invasion completely.

• It had no effect on the invasion.

• It aided the Allied penetration of Fortress Europe.

• It made the invasion more difficult.