Johann Fortner

Who was Johann Fortner?

Johann Fortner was a Generalleutnant of the Wehrmacht during World War II who commanded the 718th Infantry Division from its formation in May 1941 until he was relieved in March 1943. During his command the division engaged in anti-Partisan operations throughout occupied Yugoslavia, mainly within the Independent State of Croatia. The anti-Partisan operations conducted by the division whilst under his command involved brutal and widespread massacres and burning of villages. Although he was retired from active duty in 1944, he was extradited to Yugoslavia after the war, and was tried and executed for war crimes.