In chapter five Bruno's dad is referred to as "Commandant." Investigate what the responsibilities of a Commandant were at this time

The commandant was the chief commanding position within the SS service of a Nazi concentration camp. He held the highest rank and was the most important member of the camp unit. The commandant directed the camp headquarters and was responsible for all issues of the camp. The regulations of his duties and responsibilities came from the Concentration Camps.

Of utmost importance it was his duty to ensure the safety of the camp.