GERMANS MOURN LUDENDORFF

Southland Times, Issue 23389, 22 December 1937, Page 5

GERMANS MOURN LUDENDORFF

Pagan’s Funeral For Famous Soldier

HITLER DECREES STATE CEREMONY

(United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright) (Received December 21, 6.30 p.m.)

LONDON, December 20. Flags throughout Germany are flying at half-mast for General Erich Ludendorff, who died this morning, says the Berlin correspondent of The Daily Telegraph. The newspapers announced his death on their front pages, which had black borders. The obituary notice issued by the official news agency begins: “With deep emotion the German people stands at the bier of Erich Ludendorff, glorious commander of the world war, who stands out from contemporary history like the peak of a primeval rock in the gigantic struggle of the German people against a world of enemies. The general’s antagonism to Christian ideas and customs is causing considerable difficulty about the funeral arrangements. According to his own wishes he will not be buried in consecrated ground. Meanwhile Herr Hitler is arranging a State funeral on Wednesday near the Feldherrenhalle, which is contrary to General Ludendorff’s express wish. . The former Kaiser, who was deeply moved, sent a telegram expressing his deepest personal sorrow and sympathy with the widow. Later it was officially stated that there would be a State ceremony at the Feldherrenhalle on Wednesday at which Herr Hitler will be present. Thus it appears that the State plans will not be extended to the burial at General Ludendorff’s home, which will be performed simply, in the open air and according to the rites of the German Faith movement. The Munich correspondent of The Daily Telegraph says: “Although there has been no official announcement I understand there will be no public mourning or State funeral. Herr Hitler offered a State funeral which the widow refused. She has arranged to take her husband’s body to their home on the Stamberger See for private burial, and a grave is being prepared in the garden at the home. The service will be conducted in accordance with pagan rites. It is still possible that the widow’s decision will be over-ruled. ’