The Iron Cross recipient Werner von Haeften operated as an Oberleutnant within the Wehrmacht during the Second World War. As a central figure in the German resistance, he served as the primary adjutant to Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg, ultimately participating in the high-stakes military conspiracy directed against Adolf Hitler in the summer of 1944.
Early Background and Legal Training
Born in Berlin on 9 October 1908, Haeften was one of two sons born to Hans von Haeften, an army officer who served as President of the Reichsarchiv. Following his secondary education, he pursued law studies within his home city. Before the mobilization for the Second World War, he transitioned into the financial sector, securing employment at a banking institution in Hamburg.
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With the commencement of hostilities, Haeften entered military service as a soldier. During his deployment on the Eastern Front, he sustained a severe combat wound. His recovery allowed him to return to active duty, where his administrative and legal background facilitated his appointment in 1943 as the adjutant to Oberst Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg. This role placed him at the heart of the burgeoning movement to remove the Nazi leadership.
The 20 July Plot
On 20 July 1944, Haeften accompanied Stauffenberg to the Wolfsschanze headquarters in Rastenburg, East Prussia. Stauffenberg placed a briefcase bomb inside the conference room. Believing the assassination attempt successful, both men flew to Berlin to initiate a coup d'état. The operation stalled once it became apparent that Hitler had survived the blast, leaving the conspirators isolated within the Bendlerblock.
Execution and Legacy
Following a summary court martial conducted by General Friedrich Fromm, Haeften was sentenced to death. Shortly after midnight on 21 July 1944, he was executed by a ten-man firing squad from the Grossdeutschland Guards Battalion in the courtyard of the War Ministry. Historical accounts note that he attempted to shield Stauffenberg from the firing squad in a final display of defiance. He is buried at the Alter St.-Matthäus-Kirchhof in Berlin.
Fast facts
- Born: 9 October 1908, Berlin
- Died: 21 July 1944, Tiergarten
- Military rank: Oberleutnant
- Awards: Iron Cross, Eastern Front Medal, Wound Badge in Black
- Occupation: Jurist, military personnel, resistance fighter
Questions readers ask
What was Haeften's specific role in the 20 July plot?
He served as the adjutant to Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg and accompanied him to the Wolfsschanze to plant an explosive device.
Did his family face repercussions for the resistance activities?
Yes, his brother Hans von Haeften was executed at Plötzensee Prison on 15 August 1944 for his involvement in the anti-Hitler conspiracy.
