Erwin Rommel

Erwin Johannes Eugene Rommel (the Desert Fox) was a German Field Marshal of World War 2. His leadership and tactics earned him the title he deserves. He was one of the generals to face the Western Allies in the Invasion of Normandy (D-Day).

Unlike most other Nazis, Rommel was regarded by his enemies as a humane and professional officer. Also unlike other Nazis, he was a kind and compassionate commander. For example, he refused to kill Commandos and Jewish soldiers and civilians under Hitler's command. He also wrote several letters complaining about the mistreatment of the Jews. Also, when a British Major failed to kill him on a mission, Rommel had him buried with full military honors. And when the French workers were building the Atlantic Wall on his command, he did not treat them like slaves. Instead, he had them paid for their labor.

Rommel's most famous act that earned him high respect for the Western allies was his link to the conspiracy of the 20 July bomb plot to assassinate Hitler. The Fuhrer knew of this and chose to eliminate him quietly. In exchange for the protection of his famil, Rommel agreed to commit suicide by cyanide pill on October 14th, 1944.
 * (From Wikipedia)