WWII was the last greatest struggle and the greatest the world has ever witnessed. I feel its importance is downplayed. It was a decisive event in human history.
Well, Hitler did serve his nation in WWI as a infantry soldier, he captured four enemy soldiers single handedly, he got wounded in the leg from enemy shrapnel, he became blind after enemy chemical attack on his position. For his bravery and acts of courage he was awarded the Iron Cross first class and Iron Cross Second Class.
If Hitler died on the battlefield in 1941 or any time before 1945, who would lead Germany? Hitler was what held Germany together, and his people remained loyal to him to the bitter end.
Its not as easy as you put it.
What if you end up wounded and get captured alive? The Soviet Commissars and NKVD were infamous for their various torturing methods.
And escaping wasn't a logical choice since for the rest of his life Hitler would be on the run constantly. His presence in any country would pose a immense burden on that nation's gov.t and thus he would be expelled.
Hitler himself gives valid reasons for his choice in his final words:
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Surenas