Persona

Krueger, Walter, 1881-1967

Walter Krueger (1881-1967), General in the United States Army and commander of the 6th Army during World War II, military educator, historian and scholar, was born in Flatow, West Prussia (now Zlotow, Poland) 26 January 1881, the son of Julius O. H. Krueger and Anne (Hasse) Krueger. At the age of eight Krueger moved with his family to the United States. He attended Cincinnati Technical School (1896-1898) in Ohio, a preparatory school for technical disciplines such as engineering. Krueger later received further education at various military schools and colleges, where he also often served as instructor or professor. He was the author or translater of several books on military history and tactics.

Krueger's military career began when he enlisted (1898) as a volunteer in the Spanish-American War. After service in Cuba, Krueger enlisted in the United States regular Army as a private. In 1901 he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the 30th Infanty, having served in the Philippines. Krueger graduated from the Infantry-Cavalry School (1903) in Fort Leavenworth, Kan., then from the General Staff College (1907), also at Fort Leavenworth.

After another tour in the Philippines, followed by service in Mexico (1916) with General John J. Pershing, Krueger transferred to France (1918) during World War I, to act as Assistant Chief of Staff of the U. S. Army Infantry, 26th Division. Krueger later served with the 84th Infantry Division, and served as Assistant Chief of Staff with the Tank Corps.

Krueger graduated from the Army War College (1921), remaining as an instructor. In 1926 he graduated from the Naval War College, also teaching there from 1928 to 1932. By 1941, and the entry of the United States into World War II, Krueger had been promoted to temporary Lieutenant General commanding the United States Army, 3rd Army, with headquarters in San Antonio, Tex..

In 1943 Krueger assumed command of the United States Army, 6th Army, headquartered in Australia, at the personal request of General Douglas MacArthur. Krueger was promoted to full General (1945) after two years of fighting, in which the 6th Army under General Krueger was the principle striking force in the Southwest Pacific Area. Sixth Army thus played a major part in the most extensive series of amphibious operations in the history of the world.

In 1946 6th Army was deactivated and Krueger retired, making San Antonio, Tex. his permanent residence.

Krueger was married to Grace Aileen Norvell 11 September 1904, and the couple had three children. He died 20 August 1967 in Valley Forge, Penn., and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.