Hitler Ordered Kiwi Desert Soldiers Shot on Sight, Historian Reveals

A fascinating historical account from the NZ Herald sheds light on the intense animosity Adolf Hitler held towards New Zealand's Long Range Desert Group (LRDG). The article reveals that the "desert pirates," as they were known, so infuriated the Nazi leader that he issued a direct order for their immediate execution upon capture. This extreme reaction underscores the significant impact and disruptive effectiveness of the LRDG's operations in the North African campaign during World War II. The LRDG, comprised of soldiers from various Allied nations but with a strong New Zealand contingent, specialized in deep-desert reconnaissance, raiding, and intelligence gathering far behind enemy lines. Their daring missions, often involving long-distance travel in harsh conditions, posed a constant threat to Axis forces. The story, drawing from the work of John Daniell, highlights a lesser-known but critical aspect of New Zealand's wartime contribution, emphasizing the bravery and strategic importance of these soldiers on a global stage. For New Zealanders, this narrative reinforces a sense of national pride in the courage and effectiveness of their servicemen in some of history's most challenging conflicts.