Adolf Hitler played a minor role in World War 1. During the beginning of the war in 1914, Hitler volunteered for the German army. He served in the 16th Bavarian Reserve Infantry Regiment and fought on the Western Front. Hitler later won many awards for bravery and rose the rank of corporal. At one point during the war, he suffered a serious injury to the groin and was partially blinded by a mustard gas attack. He never rose above corporal rank and his superiors generally thought of him as a good soldier but lacking in leadership ability. Hitler survived the war and was discharged in 1920. His experience in World War 1 and his strong hatred of the Jews helped shape his future political beliefs and actions, including his rise to power in Germany and the events that led to World War 2.