Ernst Johann Rupp (13 January 1892 – 30 May 1943) was a German general in the Wehrmacht during World War II who commanded the 97th Jäger Division. He was a recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross of Nazi Germany.
Early Life and Military Career
Rupp was born on 13 January 1892 in Landshut, Germany. He began his military service in 1911 as a cadet in the Imperial German Army. During World War I, he participated in the Battle of Cambrai and was awarded the Iron Cross 2nd Class, Iron Cross 1st Class, and Bavarian medals. He served as a company commander and battalion adjutant within his regiment.
World War II
Rupp served in the Wehrmacht during World War II and took part in the Battle of France and Operation Barbarossa, including the Battle of Smolensk (1941). On 1 January 1942, he assumed command of the 97th Jäger Division, leading it in operations on the Eastern Front, including defensive actions in the Caucasus region.
He was promoted to the rank of Generalleutnant and was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 7 March 1943 for his military leadership.
Death
Rupp was killed in action on 30 May 1943 near Krymsk, Soviet Union, during operations at the Kuban bridgehead. He was 51 years old.
