Wilhelm Bodewin Johann Gustav Keitel

Wilhelm Bodewin Johann Gustav Keitel (September 22, 1882–October 16, 1946) was a German field marshal (Generalfeldmarschall) and a senior military leader during World War II. He assumed the position of Chief of the OKW (Oberkommando der Wehrmacht). The International Military Tribunal rejected Keitel’s defense that he was following orders in conformity to “the leadership principle” (Führerprinzip) and found him guilty on all charges. To underscore the criminal rather than military nature of Keitel’s acts, the Allies denied his request to be shot by firing squad. Instead, he was executed by hanging.