During the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71, he fought as a lieutenant in the Battles of Mezieres, Chevilly, Mont Mesly and Villiers. In 1871 he became captain, in 1872 he was the "19th (1st Württemberg) Uhlans "King William I"". In 1874 he was Major and 1876 staff officer. In December 1876 as a squadron leader Eugene was reassigned for the "2 Westphalian Hussar Regiment No. 11" in Düsseldorf.