He was transferred with his division to the Italian Front in September 1917 to help shore up the Austro-Hungarian Army (as part of 51st Corps, 14th Army). During the Battle of Caporetto he took command of 51st Corps from 3 November when its previous commander, Generalleutnant Albert von Berrer, was killed in action. He was awarded the Oakleaves to the Pour le Mérite (signifying a second award) on 24 November 1917.