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==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Kittel was born on 21 February 1917 in Kronsdorf (Krasov <ref group="Note">In 1935 the municipality was renamed as [[Krasov]]</ref>) near [[Krnov]] in [[Silesia|Sudeten Silesia]], [[Austria-Hungary]]. His father was Eduard Kittel, a farmer. Kittel was reserved and soft-spoken, which did not fit the perceived public image of a fighter pilot.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=298}}
Kittel was born on 21 February 1917 in Kronsdorf (Krasov) near [[Krnov]] in [[Silesia|Sudeten Silesia]], [[Austria-Hungary]].<ref group="Note">In 1935 the municipality was renamed as [[Krasov]].</ref> His father was Eduard Kittel, a farmer. Contrary to the public perception of fighter pilots, author Franz Kurowski describes Kittel as reserved and soft-spoken.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=298}}


Fascinated with flight at an early age, he first became an [[auto mechanic]] before joining the [[Luftwaffe]] in 1939 at age 22.{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=105}} After completing his training on 12 February 1941, Kittel was posted to JG 54 based at [[Jever]], [[Germany]].{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=10}} Kittel was assigned to 2 ''[[Organization of the Luftwaffe (1933–1945)#Staffel|Staffel]]'' (Squadron) JG 54 at the rank of ''[[Unteroffizier]]''. During his training he was considered a [[comrade#German usage|good comrade]] on account of his unshakeable calm, presence of mind and sense of duty. Owing to his attributes, his superior officers treated him with respect. During his training and early career [[Hannes Trautloft]] became a role model and offered Kittel advice about his techniques. He also formed a friendship with German ace [[Hans Philipp]], who often shared advice about aerial combat. Philipp had served as a [[pastor]] when Kittel married his fiancé, Edith in June 1942 at [[Gatchina|Krasnogvardeysk]]. Edith had travelled into occupied Soviet territory near the front line to marry Kittel.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=299–300}} They had one son, Manfred Kittel, born in 1945.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=147–148}}
Fascinated with flight at an early age, after working briefly as an [[auto mechanic]] Kittel joined the [[Luftwaffe]] in 1939 at the age of 22.{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=105}} After completing his training on 12 February 1941, Kittel was posted to JG 54 based at [[Jever]], [[Germany]].{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=10}} He was assigned to 2 ''[[Organization of the Luftwaffe (1933–1945)#Staffel|Staffel]]'' (Squadron) JG 54 at the rank of ''[[Unteroffizier]]''. During his training he was described as a [[comrade#German usage|good comrade]] on account of his calm demeanour, presence of mind and sense of duty. Owing to these attributes, his superior officers treated him with respect. During his training and early career [[Hannes Trautloft]] became a role model and offered Kittel advice about his techniques. He also formed a friendship with German ace [[Hans Philipp]], who often shared advice about aerial combat, and who later served as a [[pastor]] when Kittel married his fiancé, Edith, in June 1942 at [[Gatchina|Krasnogvardeysk]] after she had travelled into occupied Soviet territory to be with him.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=299–300}} The couple later had one son, Manfred, who was born in 1945.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=147–148}}


==World War II==
==World War II==
Kittel's first operations were [[air superiority]] missions during the [[Balkans Campaign (World War II)|Balkans Campaign]]. The [[German invasion of Yugoslavia]] and the [[bombing of Belgrade]] were supported by Kittel's ''[[Geschwader]]'' (Wing). Little air combat took place and Kittel's only combat actions were during strafing missions against [[Yugoslav Army]] forces. By the time of the Yugoslavian surrender, on 17 April 1941, JG 54 had claimed 376 aerial victories during the entire war. Kittel had yet to achieve a kill. During the course of the campaign Kittel acted as [[wingman]] for his ''staffel'' leader, who was the first to engage any enemy aircraft.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=10–11}} On 12 May 1941 JG 54 handed over its old Bf 109E fighters to ''[[Jagdgeschwader 77]]'' (Fighter Wing 77), and Kittel began intensive training on the new Bf 109F.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=268–269}}
Kittel's first operations were [[air superiority]] missions during the [[Balkans Campaign (World War II)|Balkans Campaign]]. Assigned to support the [[German invasion of Yugoslavia]] and the [[bombing of Belgrade]], Kittel's ''[[Geschwader]]'' (Wing) was credited with 376 aerial victories by the time of the Yugoslavian surrender on 17 April 1941. During the course of the campaign Kittel acted as [[wingman]] for his ''staffel'' leader, who was the first to engage any enemy aircraft, and Kittel saw only limited air combat. His only combat actions were during strafing missions against [[Yugoslav Army]] forces.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=10–11}} On 12 May 1941, JG 54 handed over its old Bf 109E fighters to ''[[Jagdgeschwader 77]]'' (Fighter Wing 77), and Kittel began intensive training on the new Bf 109F.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=268–269}}


===Operation Barbarossa===
===Operation Barbarossa===
[[File:Bf 109 G-2 trop RAF Museum London.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A Bf 109G-2. Kittel flew the Bf 109 during his earlier career.]]
[[File:Bf 109 G-2 trop RAF Museum London.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A Bf 109G-2. Kittel flew the Bf 109 during his earlier career.]]
The German invasion of the [[Soviet Union]], [[Operation Barbarossa]], began on 22 June 1941. On 14 June 1941, JG&nbsp;54 had been moved to at an airfield in Lindenthal near Rautenberg, [[East Prussia]], present-day Uslowoje in [[Kaliningrad Oblast]]. The units objective was to support [[Army Group North]] in its advance through the [[Baltic states]] towards [[Leningrad]].{{sfn|Prien|Stemmer|Rodeike|Bock|2003|p=184}} On 24 June 1941, Kittel claimed his first two aerial victories, two [[Tupolev SB|Tupolev SB-2]] bombers, shot down at 05:19 and 05:42 in the morning.{{sfn|Prien|Stemmer|Rodeike|Bock|2003|p=199}} Despite his two victories, Kittel got off to a slow start in combat. On 30 June 1941 he downed his first [[Ilyushin Il-2|Ilyushin Il-2 ''Shturmovik'']]. His third victory earned him the [[Iron Cross]] Second Class ({{Lang|de|''Eisernes Kreuz zweiter Klasse''}}). The German advance had now taken JG 54 to [[Staraya Russa]], just south of [[Leningrad]]. JG 54 was to stay there for nearly two years.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=270–275}}
[[Operation Barbarossa]], the German invasion of the [[Soviet Union]], began on 22 June 1941. In the fortnight prior, JG&nbsp;54 had been moved to an airfield in Lindenthal near Rautenberg, [[East Prussia]], present-day Uslowoje in [[Kaliningrad Oblast]]. Tasked with supporting [[Army Group North]] in its advance through the [[Baltic states]] towards [[Leningrad]], the unit began combat operations shortly afterwards.{{sfn|Prien|Stemmer|Rodeike|Bock|2003|p=184}} On 24 June 1941, Kittel claimed his first two aerial victories, two [[Tupolev SB|Tupolev SB-2]] bombers, shot down during an early morning mission.{{sfn|Prien|Stemmer|Rodeike|Bock|2003|p=199}} On 30 June 1941, he downed his first [[Ilyushin Il-2|Ilyushin Il-2 ''Shturmovik'']]. His third victory earned him the [[Iron Cross]], Second Class ({{Lang|de|''Eisernes Kreuz zweiter Klasse''}}). By that time, the German advance had taken JG 54 to [[Staraya Russa]], just south of [[Leningrad]], and they would remain there for nearly two years.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=270–275}}


By winter 1941–1942, he had 11 victories and was awarded the Iron Cross First Class ({{Lang|de|''Eisernes Kreuz erster Klasse''}}) in October 1941.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=275}} In mid-March Kittel claimed two ''Shturmoviks'' for his 13–14 aerial victories. However, his Bf 109 suffered damage and Kittel returned to base, resisting the urge to chase more and risk his life. His [[motto]] was to get back in one piece and avoid risks: "Take the safe route and avoid ill-considered and wild offensive tactics".{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=277}} In the end that alone produced success. Risking himself for a single victory was not Kittel's way. Within two months his tally had risen to 17. Sometime in May 1942 Kittel claimed a further two victories, one bomber and one fighter, in a single mission. During the combat he became involved in a dogfight with two experienced opponents. Using clever tactics, the Soviet fighters tried to force him into a trap; one chasing the other in an attempt to cut him off. Kittel's aircraft was fired on several times and hit. However, he managed to escape, in the process shooting down one of the enemy fighters.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=277–280}}{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=16}}
By winter 1941–1942, he had 11 victories and was awarded the Iron Cross First Class ({{Lang|de|''Eisernes Kreuz erster Klasse''}}) in October 1941.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=275}} In mid-March Kittel claimed two ''Shturmoviks'' for his 13–14 aerial victories but his Bf 109 suffered damage and Kittel returned to base, resisting the urge to chase more and risk his life. His [[motto]] was to get back in one piece and avoid risks: "Take the safe route and avoid ill-considered and wild offensive tactics".{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=277}} In the end that alone produced success, risking himself for a single victory was not Kittel's way. Within two months his tally had risen to 17 and in May 1942, Kittel claimed two more victories, one bomber and one fighter, in a one sortie. During the combat he became involved in a dogfight with two experienced opponents; the Soviet pilots tried to force him into a trap, one chasing the other in an attempt to cut him off. Kittel's aircraft was fired on several times and hit but he managed to shoot down one of the Soviet fighters and make his escape.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=277–280}}{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=16}}


===Leningrad Front===
===Leningrad Front===
During the summer, 1942, aerial victories were hard to come by. Operating in the northern sector of the front usually meant little action as all the Soviet air activity was now combating German [[Army Group South]]'s summer offensive, [[Case Blue]]. Every now and again an enemy aircraft would be sighted and shot down, but Kittel was frustrated. The ground crews kept up his spirits.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=281}} On 19 February 1943, ''[[Feldwebel]]'' Kittel achieved his 39th victory, which was also JG 54's 4,000th of the war.{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=84}} JG 54 ''[[Geschwaderkommodore]]'' ([[Wing Commander (rank)|Wing Commander]]) [[Hannes Trautloft]] congratulated Kittel and said the following: "I have instructed that you're no longer to be assigned as wingman. Instead you're to be sent on ''[[Combat air patrol|''freie Jagd'']]'' [combat patrol] on your own whenever there's an opportunity."{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=285–287}}{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=67–69}}{{sfn|Bergström|2007|p=40}} In early 1943, JG 54 had been withdrawn from the frontline to convert to the Fw 190. With stronger undercarriage for the harsher conditions on the Eastern Front, greater firepower, speed and agility, the fighter was popular among pilots. Kittel, in particular, was pleased. The Fw 190 was an ideal interceptor against the tough and heavily armoured ''Shturmovik'', his favourite target. At this point, Kittel's victory tally climbed rapidly.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=288}} By mid-March 1943, Kittel had reached 46 victories, encompassing all types of aircraft.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=65}}
During the summer of 1942, aerial victories were hard to come by. Operating in the northern sector of the front usually meant little action as all the Soviet air activity was now combating German [[Army Group South]]'s summer offensive, codenamed [[Case Blue]]. During this time, air combat in Kittel's sector was sporadic. Kurowski recounts that Kittel became frustrated at this time, although his ground crew worked to keep up his spirits.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=281}} On 19 February 1943, ''[[Feldwebel]]'' Kittel achieved his 39th victory, which was also JG 54's 4,000th of the war.{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=84}} JG 54 ''[[Geschwaderkommodore]]'' ([[Wing Commander (rank)|Wing Commander]]) [[Hannes Trautloft]] congratulated Kittel, and decreed that he was no longer to be assigned the role of wingman, but would instead be allowed to conduct lone combat patrols.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=285–287}}{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=67–69}}{{sfn|Bergström|2007|p=40}} In early 1943, JG 54 was withdrawn from the frontline to convert to the Fw 190. With a stronger undercarriage for the harsher conditions on the Eastern Front, greater firepower, speed and agility, the fighter was popular among pilots. Kittel, in particular, was pleased. The Fw 190 was an ideal interceptor against the tough and heavily armoured ''Shturmovik'', his favourite target. At this point, after returning to combat, Kittel's victory tally climbed rapidly.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=288}} By mid-March 1943, Kittel had reached 46 victories, encompassing all types of aircraft.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=65}}


On 14 or 15 March 1943 while on a mission over the [[Demyansk pocket]], Kittel's Fw 190 suffered engine failure. He was {{Convert|80|km|mi|sp=us}} behind Soviet lines. He removed his precision board clock, an intricately engineered instrument (all pilots were ordered to do so) and landed his Fw 190 which slid {{Convert|150|m|ft|sp=us}} to a stop in a snow-covered field. His comrade, and a member of the flight, [[Herbert Broennle]], advised him to hide after landing, to travel only by night and use a compass on a heading of 255 degrees (north-west) which would take him to [[Staraya Russa]], towards JG 54's base behind German lines. Broennle himself had been shot down under the same circumstances in 1941, and had experience. Kittel ran for the nearest forest after landing. Several Russian women and children saw the crash from two houses nearby and came running out. No men were in sight. When Kittel got to the forest he found he had left his emergency rations behind, having only chocolate bar with him. He continued through the forest, able to move through the forest during the day unseen, resting often. Needing to eat, he raided several empty houses and found clothes but no food. Determined to find food, and now looking like a Russian peasant, he passed through several Soviet checkpoints looking for something to eat. Kittel spoke Czech and some Russian and managed to evade detection. On the route he stopped at several points and was given food. Eventually Kittel made it to the edge of [[Lake Ilmen]]. At night he crossed the frozen lake and made it to German lines. Kittel was 'recaptured' three days after crashing by a German sentry.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=292–296}} Following his return, Kittel was promoted to ''[[Oberfeldwebel]]'' (staff sergeant) on 18 March 1943.{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=106}}
On 14 or 15 March 1943 while on a mission over the [[Demyansk pocket]], Kittel's Fw 190 suffered engine failure. He was {{Convert|80|km|mi|sp=us}} behind Soviet lines. He removed his precision board clock, an intricately engineered instrument which he was under orders to secure, and landed his Fw 190 which slid {{Convert|150|m|ft|sp=us}} to a stop in a snow-covered field. During the landing, fellow pilot [[Herbert Broennle]], who had been shot down under similar circumstances, advised Kittel over the radio to hide after landing, to travel only by night and to march compass bearing of 255 degrees (north-west) which would take him to [[Staraya Russa]], towards JG 54's base behind German lines. After exiting his aircraft, Kittel ran for the nearest forest after landing as several locals began emerging from nearby houses. When Kittel got to the forest he found he had left his emergency rations behind, having only a chocolate bar with him. He continued through the forest. In the dense vegetation he was able to move during the day unseen. Resting often, he raided several empty houses and found clothes but no food. Determined to find food, and dressed as a Russian peasant, he passed through several Soviet checkpoints looking for something to eat. Kittel spoke Czech and some Russian and managed to evade detection. En route he stopped at several points and was given food, and eventually Kittel made it to the edge of [[Lake Ilmen]]. After nightfall he crossed the frozen lake and made it to German lines, three days after his crash landing.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=292–296}}


Kittel took leave in March/April 1943. By the time he returned [[Walter Nowotny]] had taken over the ''[[Luftwaffe Organization#Gruppe|Gruppe]]'' (Group). Philipp had left to take command of ''[[Jagdgeschwader 1 (World War II)|Jagdgeschwader 1]]'' (JG 1) in Germany. He was killed on 8 October 1943. On 3 May 1943, Kittel resumed his combat career with three victories. However he was shot down and forced landed owing to return fire from a bombers' gunner.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=300–302}} On 10 June 1943, Kittel achieved another aerial victory, takking his totla to 50.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=302–304}}{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=39}}
Following his return, Kittel was promoted to ''[[Oberfeldwebel]]'' (staff sergeant) on 18 March 1943.{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=106}} Kittel took leave in March/April 1943. By the time he returned [[Walter Nowotny]] had taken over the ''[[Luftwaffe Organization#Gruppe|Gruppe]]'' (Group). Philipp had left to take command of ''[[Jagdgeschwader 1 (World War II)|Jagdgeschwader 1]]'' (JG 1) in Germany, and was later killed in action on 8 October 1943. On 3 May 1943, Kittel scored his first aerial victories since his return, claiming three Soviet aircraft in an operation before machine gun fire from a bomber's rear gunner damaged his aircraft and forced him to crash land.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=300–302}} On 10 June 1943, Kittel achieved another aerial victory, taking his total to 50.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=302–304}}{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=39}}


===Kursk and back to the Baltic===
===Kursk and the Baltic===
JG 54 took part in many of the spring battles over the [[Crimea Peninsula]], [[Vyazma]]-[[Bryansk]], [[Vitebsk]], [[Kharkov]], [[Orsha]] and [[Oryol|Orel]] regions. As the spring battles ended, the Germans prepared for [[Operation Citadel]], which led to the [[Battle of Kursk]]. During the air battles Kittel's unit escorted [[Junkers Ju 87]] ''Stukas'' of III./''[[Sturzkampfgeschwader 2]]'' (Third Group, StG 2, or Dive Bomber Wing 2), which achieved fame under the leadership of [[Hans-Ulrich Rudel]].{{sfn|Bergström|2007|p=106}}
During the fighting in mid-1943, JG 54 took part in many of the spring battles over the [[Crimea Peninsula]], [[Vyazma]]-[[Bryansk]], [[Vitebsk]], [[Kharkov]], [[Orsha]] and [[Oryol|Orel]] regions. As the spring battles ended, the Germans prepared for [[Operation Citadel]], which led to the [[Battle of Kursk]]. During the air battles that followed Kittel's unit escorted [[Junkers Ju 87]] ''Stukas'' of III./''[[Sturzkampfgeschwader 2]]'' (Third Group, StG 2, or Dive Bomber Wing 2), commanded by [[Hans-Ulrich Rudel]].{{sfn|Bergström|2007|p=106}}

On 5 July 1943, the Germans launched their attack. By this date, Kittel had claimed 56 victories. During the first day of ''Citadel'' Kittel became an "[[Aviators who became ace in a day|ace-in-a-day]]" claiming six victories. The next day he shot down three more Soviet aircraft. It was at this point Kittel won recognition and become one of the most prominent aces. After the German defeat at Kursk, Kittel continued participating in further battles as the German Army retreated to the Dnieper river. Kittel had achieved a one kill per day average to reach 94 victories on 4 September 1943.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=306–311}} Just 10 days later, on 14 September 1943, Kittel claimed his 100th aerial victory, [[Yakovlev Yak-9]] fighter aircraft shot down at 16:12.{{sfn|Prien|Stemmer|Rodeike|Bock|2012|p=184}} He was the 53rd ''Luftwaffe'' pilot to achieve the century mark.{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=243}} He received the [[Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross]] (''Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes'') on 29 October 1943 for 120 victories. By the time he was awarded it on 29 October, he had added three more victories to reach 123.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=81}}{{sfn|Scutts|1992|p=101}} The presentation was made by ''[[Oberst]]'' [[Franz Reuß]].{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=106}}
On 5 July 1943, the Germans launched their attack. By this date, Kittel had claimed 56 victories. During the first day of ''Citadel'' Kittel became an "[[Aviators who became ace in a day|ace-in-a-day]]" claiming six victories. The next day he shot down three more Soviet aircraft. It was at this point Kittel achieved recognition as one of the most prominent German aces. After the German defeat at Kursk, Kittel's combat career continued as the German Army retreated to the Dnieper River. Kittel had achieved a one kill per day average to reach 94 victories on 4 September 1943.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=306–311}} Just 10 days later, on 14 September 1943, Kittel claimed his 100th aerial victory, a [[Yakovlev Yak-9]] fighter.{{sfn|Prien|Stemmer|Rodeike|Bock|2012|p=184}} The 53rd ''Luftwaffe'' pilot to achieve the century mark,{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=243}} he received the [[Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross]] (''Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes'') on 29 October 1943. By the time he was awarded it on 29 October, his tally was 123 aerial victories.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=81}}{{sfn|Scutts|1992|p=101}} The presentation was made by ''[[Oberst]]'' [[Franz Reuß]].{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=106}}


[[File:Fw 190 A-8.jpg|thumb|right|300px|An Fw 190 A-8. Kittel flew the Fw 190 and claimed over 200 of his 267 victories in the type.{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=92}}]]
[[File:Fw 190 A-8.jpg|thumb|right|300px|An Fw 190 A-8. Kittel flew the Fw 190 and claimed over 200 of his 267 victories in the type.{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=92}}]]
Kittel was promoted to ''[[Leutnant]]'' (second lieutenant) on 1 November 1943.,{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=106}} Between November 1943 through January 1944 Kittel was chief instructor of the ''[[Ergänzungs-Jagdgruppe Ost]]'' (Training Group East) in [[Biarritz]], France, passing on knowledge and experience to the ''Jagdflieger'' (fighter pilots) of the future. Unhappy in a teaching role, Kittel filed several applications to return to combat, and in March 1944 Kittel returned to JG 54 on the Eastern Front.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=316}}
On 1 November 1943, Kittel was promoted to the rank of ''[[Leutnant]]'' (second lieutenant).{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=106}} From then until January 1944 Kittel served a the chief instructor of the ''[[Ergänzungs-Jagdgruppe Ost]]'' (Training Group East) in [[Biarritz]], France, providing instructor to trainee fighter pilots. Unhappy in a teaching role, Kittel filed several applications to return to combat, and in March 1944 his request was approved. Kittel subsequently returned to JG 54 on the Eastern Front.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=316}}


On 2 April 1944, having achieved 144 victories, Kittel claimed a further six for a total of 150. Kittel's 150th victory was claimed sometime between 4–8 April 1944. On April 14 he was awarded the [[Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves]] ({{lang|de|''Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub''}}) for his 152nd aerial victory, claimed on 12 April. Kittel received the Oak Leaves from [[Adolf Hitler]] at the [[Berghof (residence)|Berghof]], [[Obersalzberg]] on 5 May 1944, becoming the 449th German so recognised.{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=107}} In May 1944, 2. ''Staffel'' had been transferred to augment III. ''Gruppe'' (3rd group) of JG&nbsp;54 fighting on the [[Western Front (World War II)|Western Front]] in [[defense of the Reich]]. In August 1944, a new 2. ''Staffel'' was formed from remnants of 3. ''Staffel'', and Kittel was appointed its ''[[Staffelkapitän]]'' (squadron leader).{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=108}}
In early April achieved his 150th aerial victory. On April 14, he was awarded the [[Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves]] ({{lang|de|''Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub''}}) for his 152nd aerial victory, claimed on 12 April. Kittel received the Oak Leaves from [[Adolf Hitler]] at the [[Berghof (residence)|Berghof]], [[Obersalzberg]] on 5 May 1944, becoming the 449th German to receive the award.{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=107}} In May 1944, 2. ''Staffel'' was transferred to augment III. ''Gruppe'' (3rd group) of JG&nbsp;54 fighting on the [[Western Front (World War II)|Western Front]] to provide [[defense of the Reich|air defense for the Reich]] amidst increasing Allied aerial attacks. In August 1944, a new 2. ''Staffel'' was formed from remnants of 3. ''Staffel'', and Kittel was appointed its ''[[Staffelkapitän]]'' (squadron leader).{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=108}}


Kittel continued to increase his tally, shooting down another 50 aircraft by 26 August 1944, bringing his overall total to 200.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=87–88, 139}}{{refn|According to Bergström and Obermaier, Kittel was credited with his 200th aerial victory on 23 August 1944.{{sfn|Bergström|2008|p=82}}{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=39}}|group="Note"}} At this time, Kittel was flying a Fw 190A-6, "Yellow 5".{{sfn|Weal|1998|pp=55, 92}} By the 27 October 1944, Kittel had achieved 254 victories, a total of 102 in just six months. He earned the [[Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords]] ({{lang|de|''Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern''}}) on 25 November 1944 for 264 victories, only the 113th German serviceman to receive the award.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=140–141}}{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=317}} Kittel flew to [[Führer Headquarters|Hitler's Headquarters]] to receive the award and then continued to Germany to spend his leave there. When he returned in January 1945 he took over 2./JG&nbsp;54, or 2 ''Staffel'' (No. 2 Squadron). Kittel added a further three victories during his time as the ''Staffel's'' leader.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=320}} By 13 February 1945, Kittel had a personal total of 266 aerial victories.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=142}}
Kittel continued to increase his tally, shooting down another 50 aircraft by 26 August 1944, bringing his overall total to 200.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=87–88, 139}}{{refn|According to Bergström and Obermaier, Kittel was credited with his 200th aerial victory on 23 August 1944.{{sfn|Bergström|2008|p=82}}{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=39}}|group="Note"}} By this time, Kittel had converted to flying a Fw 190A-6, designated "Yellow 5".{{sfn|Weal|1998|pp=55, 92}} By the 27 October 1944, Kittel had achieved 254 victories, a total of 102 in just six months. He earned the [[Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords]] ({{lang|de|''Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern''}}) on 25 November 1944 for 264 victories, only the 113th German serviceman to receive the award.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=140–141}}{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=317}} Kittel flew to [[Führer Headquarters|Hitler's headquarters]] to receive the award and then continued to Germany to spend his leave there. When he returned in January 1945 he took JG 54's second squadron, 2 ''Staffel''. Kittel added a further three victories during his time as the ''Staffel's'' leader.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|p=320}} By 13 February 1945, Kittel had a personal total of 266 aerial victories.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=142}}


At 12:06 on 14 or 16 February 1945,{{refn|The date of Kittel's death is uncertain as some sources state the 14 February while others give the 16 February. If the later date is correct, Kittel was probably killed by a unit of the Soviet [[15th Air Army]] which carried out large-scale air operations over JG 54 airspace on that date. Kittel remained the highest scoring German ace to be killed in action.{{sfn|Bergström|2008|p=103}}|group="Note"}} Kittel took off with his ''[[Geschwader]]'' (Wing) flying Fw 190 A-8 "Black 1" (''Werknummer''—factory number 690 282) to engage a formation of 14 ''Shturmovik'' aircraft over the [[Courland Pocket]].{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=39}} His [[wingman]] ''[[Oberfähnrich]]'' Renner later reported: At 12:13 he made contact with the formation at low altitude, no more than {{convert|100–150|m|ft|sp=us}}. Kittel attacked, firing at and damaging several ''Shturmovik''. Kittel damaged one aircraft and chased it. As he closed in for the kill, his Focke-Wulf was hit by return fire from a rear gunner, and descended towards the ground on fire. Kittel, probably incapacitated and unable to use his [[parachute]], did not bail out and the Fw 190 crashed in flames.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=320–321}}{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=84}} The site of the crash is believed to have been {{convert|6|km|mi|sp=us}} south-west of [[Džūkste parish|Džūkste]] in [[Latvia]].{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=147}}{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=108}} Witnesses from Kittel's formation reported that a ''Shturmovik'' had been shot down by Kittel before he himself was killed during the air battle having scored his 267th and final victory.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=142–143}}
At 12:06 on 14 or 16 February 1945,{{refn|The date of Kittel's death is uncertain as some sources state 14 February while others give 16 February. If the later date is correct, Kittel was probably killed by a unit of the Soviet [[15th Air Army]], which carried out large-scale air operations over JG 54 airspace on that date. Kittel remained the highest scoring German ace to be killed in action.{{sfn|Bergström|2008|p=103}}|group="Note"}} Kittel took off with his ''[[Geschwader]]'' (Wing) flying Fw 190 A-8 "Black 1" (''Werknummer''—factory number— 690 282) to engage a formation of 14 ''Shturmovik'' aircraft over the [[Courland Pocket]].{{sfn|Obermaier|1989|p=39}} His [[wingman]], ''[[Oberfähnrich]]'' Renner, later reported: At 12:13 he made contact with the formation at low altitude, no more than {{convert|100–150|m|ft|sp=us}}. Kittel attacked, firing at and damaging several ''Shturmovik''. Kittel damaged one aircraft and chased it. As he closed in for the kill, his Focke-Wulf was hit by return fire from a rear gunner, and descended towards the ground on fire. Kittel, probably incapacitated and unable to use his [[parachute]], did not bail out and the Fw 190 crashed in flames.{{sfn|Kurowski|1996|pp=320–321}}{{sfn|Weal|1998|p=84}} The site of the crash is believed to have been {{convert|6|km|mi|sp=us}} south-west of [[Džūkste parish|Džūkste]] in [[Latvia]].{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|p=147}}{{sfn|Stockert|2007|p=108}} Witnesses from Kittel's formation reported that a ''Shturmovik'' had been shot down by Kittel before he himself was killed during the air battle having scored his 267th and final victory.{{sfn|Kurowski|2007|pp=142–143}}


==Awards==
==Awards==
Line 89: Line 91:


===Citations===
===Citations===
{{Reflist|25em}}
{{Reflist|20em}}


===Bibliography===
===Bibliography===
{{refbegin|30em}}
{{refbegin}}
* {{Cite book
* {{Cite book
|last=Berger
|last=Berger
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|title=Luftwaffe Aces
|title=Luftwaffe Aces
|location=Winnipeg
|location=Winnipeg
|publisher=J.J. Fedorowicz Publishing
|publisher=J. J. Fedorowicz
|isbn=978-0-921991-31-1
|isbn=978-0-921991-31-1
|ref=harv
|ref=harv
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|first=Ernst
|first=Ernst
|year=1989
|year=1989
|title=Die Ritterkreuzträger der Luftwaffe Jagdflieger 1939 – 1945
|title=Die Ritterkreuzträger der Luftwaffe Jagdflieger 1939–1945
|trans_title=The Knight's Cross Bearers of the Luftwaffe Fighter Force 1939 – 1945
|trans_title=The Knight's Cross Bearers of the Luftwaffe Fighter Force 1939–1945
|language=German
|language=German
|location=Mainz, Germany
|location=Mainz, Germany
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|first2=Veit
|first2=Veit
|year=2001
|year=2001
|title=Das Deutsche Kreuz 1941 – 1945 Geschichte und Inhaber Band II
|title=Das Deutsche Kreuz 1941–1945 Geschichte und Inhaber Band II
|trans_title=The German Cross 1941 – 1945 History and Recipients Volume 2
|trans_title=The German Cross 1941–1945 History and Recipients
|volume=II
|language=German
|language=German
|location=Norderstedt, Germany
|location=Norderstedt, Germany
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|title=The Greatest Aces
|title=The Greatest Aces
|publisher=Ballantine Books
|publisher=Ballantine Books
|location=New York
|oclc=1349435
|oclc=1349435
|ref=harv
|ref=harv
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|year=2007
|year=2007
|title=Die Eichenlaubträger 1939–1945 Band 5
|title=Die Eichenlaubträger 1939–1945 Band 5
|trans_title=The Oak Leaves Bearers 1939–1945 Volume 5
|trans_title=The Oak Leaves Bearers 1939–1945
|volume=V
|language=German
|language=German
|location=Bad Friedrichshall, Germany
|location=Bad Friedrichshall, Germany
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|year=1997
|year=1997
|title=Die Eichenlaubträger 1939–1945 Band 1: A–K
|title=Die Eichenlaubträger 1939–1945 Band 1: A–K
|trans_title=The Oak Leaves Bearers 1939–1945 Volume 1: A–K
|trans_title=The Oak Leaves Bearers 1939–1945: A–K
|volume=I
|language=German
|language=German
|location=Osnabrück, Germany
|location=Osnabrück, Germany
Line 305: Line 311:
|year=1976
|year=1976
|title=Die Ritterkreuzträger 1939–1945 : die Ritterkreuzträger sämtlicher Wehrmachtteile, Brillanten-, Schwerter- und Eichenlaubträger in der Reihenfolge der Verleihung : Anhang mit Verleihungsbestimmungen und weiteren Angaben
|title=Die Ritterkreuzträger 1939–1945 : die Ritterkreuzträger sämtlicher Wehrmachtteile, Brillanten-, Schwerter- und Eichenlaubträger in der Reihenfolge der Verleihung : Anhang mit Verleihungsbestimmungen und weiteren Angaben
|trans_title=The Knight's Cross Bearers 1939–1945 : The Knight's Cross Bearers of All the Armed Services, Diamonds, Swords and Oak Leaves Bearers in the Order of Presentation: Appendix with Further Information and Presentation Requirements
|trans_title=The Knight's Cross Bearers 1939–1945: The Knight's Cross Bearers of All the Armed Services, Diamonds, Swords and Oak Leaves Bearers in the Order of Presentation: Appendix with Further Information and Presentation Requirements
|language=German
|language=German
|location=Friedberg, Germany
|location=Friedberg, Germany
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|year=1998
|year=1998
|title=Focke-Wulf Fw 190 Aces of the Russian Front
|title=Focke-Wulf Fw 190 Aces of the Russian Front
|location=London, UK
|location=London
|publisher=[[Osprey Publishing]]
|publisher=Osprey
|isbn=978-1-85532-518-0
|isbn=978-1-85532-518-0
|ref=harv
|ref=harv
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|year=2001
|year=2001
|title=Jagdgeschwader 54 'Grünherz'
|title=Jagdgeschwader 54 'Grünherz'
|location=Oxford, UK
|location=Oxford
|publisher=[[Osprey Publishing]]
|publisher=Osprey
|isbn=978-1-84176-286-9
|isbn=978-1-84176-286-9
|ref=harv
|ref=harv

Revision as of 13:48, 18 July 2016

Otto "Bruno" Kittel
File:Otto Kittel.jpg
Otto Kittel
Nickname(s)Bruno, Annihilator of Shturmoviks
Born(1917-02-21)21 February 1917
Kronsdorf, Sudetenland
Died14 or 16 February 1945 (aged 27)
Džūkste, Latvia
Allegiance Nazi Germany
Service/branch Luftwaffe
Years of service1939–45
RankOberleutnant
UnitJG 54
Commands held2./JG 54
EJGr Ost
Battles/warsWorld War II
AwardsKnight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords

Otto "Bruno" Kittel (21 February 1917 – 14 or 16 February 1945) was a World War II Luftwaffe flying ace. He flew 583 combat missions on the Eastern Front, claiming 267 aerial victories, making him the fourth highest scoring ace in aviation history.[1][2] Kittel claimed all of his victories flying the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Focke-Wulf Fw 190 against the Red Air Force.[3]

Kittel joined the Luftwaffe in 1939, at the age of 22 and flew his first combat missions in 1941.[4] In spring 1941, he joined Jagdgeschwader 54 (JG 54) supporting Army Group North on the Eastern Front. Kittel claimed his first victory on 22 June 1941, the opening day of Operation Barbarossa. Kittel took time to amass his personal tally of aerial victories. By February 1943, he reached 39 kills, relatively insignificant when compared with some other German aces. In 1943, his tally began to increase when JG 54 began to operate the Fw 190. Kittel earned the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) on 29 October 1943, for reaching 120 aerial victories. By the time he was officially awarded the decoration he had a tally of 123. A large number of his Soviet victims included the IL-2 Shturmovik aircraft, leading the German Army to call him the "Butcher Killer", a nickname they had given to the tough Shturmovik.[5]

During the remainder of World War II, Kittel was credited with 144 other aerial victories, which earned him the coveted Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords. On his 583rd combat mission, he was shot down and killed by the air gunner of a Shturmovik on 14 or 16 February 1945. Kittel was the most successful German fighter pilot to be killed in action.[6]

Personal life

Kittel was born on 21 February 1917 in Kronsdorf (Krasov) near Krnov in Sudeten Silesia, Austria-Hungary.[Note 1] His father was Eduard Kittel, a farmer. Contrary to the public perception of fighter pilots, author Franz Kurowski describes Kittel as reserved and soft-spoken.[7]

Fascinated with flight at an early age, after working briefly as an auto mechanic Kittel joined the Luftwaffe in 1939 at the age of 22.[8] After completing his training on 12 February 1941, Kittel was posted to JG 54 based at Jever, Germany.[9] He was assigned to 2 Staffel (Squadron) JG 54 at the rank of Unteroffizier. During his training he was described as a good comrade on account of his calm demeanour, presence of mind and sense of duty. Owing to these attributes, his superior officers treated him with respect. During his training and early career Hannes Trautloft became a role model and offered Kittel advice about his techniques. He also formed a friendship with German ace Hans Philipp, who often shared advice about aerial combat, and who later served as a pastor when Kittel married his fiancé, Edith, in June 1942 at Krasnogvardeysk after she had travelled into occupied Soviet territory to be with him.[10] The couple later had one son, Manfred, who was born in 1945.[11]

World War II

Kittel's first operations were air superiority missions during the Balkans Campaign. Assigned to support the German invasion of Yugoslavia and the bombing of Belgrade, Kittel's Geschwader (Wing) was credited with 376 aerial victories by the time of the Yugoslavian surrender on 17 April 1941. During the course of the campaign Kittel acted as wingman for his staffel leader, who was the first to engage any enemy aircraft, and Kittel saw only limited air combat. His only combat actions were during strafing missions against Yugoslav Army forces.[12] On 12 May 1941, JG 54 handed over its old Bf 109E fighters to Jagdgeschwader 77 (Fighter Wing 77), and Kittel began intensive training on the new Bf 109F.[13]

Operation Barbarossa

A Bf 109G-2. Kittel flew the Bf 109 during his earlier career.

Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union, began on 22 June 1941. In the fortnight prior, JG 54 had been moved to an airfield in Lindenthal near Rautenberg, East Prussia, present-day Uslowoje in Kaliningrad Oblast. Tasked with supporting Army Group North in its advance through the Baltic states towards Leningrad, the unit began combat operations shortly afterwards.[14] On 24 June 1941, Kittel claimed his first two aerial victories, two Tupolev SB-2 bombers, shot down during an early morning mission.[15] On 30 June 1941, he downed his first Ilyushin Il-2 Shturmovik. His third victory earned him the Iron Cross, Second Class ([Eisernes Kreuz zweiter Klasse] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)). By that time, the German advance had taken JG 54 to Staraya Russa, just south of Leningrad, and they would remain there for nearly two years.[16]

By winter 1941–1942, he had 11 victories and was awarded the Iron Cross First Class ([Eisernes Kreuz erster Klasse] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)) in October 1941.[17] In mid-March Kittel claimed two Shturmoviks for his 13–14 aerial victories but his Bf 109 suffered damage and Kittel returned to base, resisting the urge to chase more and risk his life. His motto was to get back in one piece and avoid risks: "Take the safe route and avoid ill-considered and wild offensive tactics".[18] In the end that alone produced success, risking himself for a single victory was not Kittel's way. Within two months his tally had risen to 17 and in May 1942, Kittel claimed two more victories, one bomber and one fighter, in a one sortie. During the combat he became involved in a dogfight with two experienced opponents; the Soviet pilots tried to force him into a trap, one chasing the other in an attempt to cut him off. Kittel's aircraft was fired on several times and hit but he managed to shoot down one of the Soviet fighters and make his escape.[19][20]

Leningrad Front

During the summer of 1942, aerial victories were hard to come by. Operating in the northern sector of the front usually meant little action as all the Soviet air activity was now combating German Army Group South's summer offensive, codenamed Case Blue. During this time, air combat in Kittel's sector was sporadic. Kurowski recounts that Kittel became frustrated at this time, although his ground crew worked to keep up his spirits.[21] On 19 February 1943, Feldwebel Kittel achieved his 39th victory, which was also JG 54's 4,000th of the war.[22] JG 54 Geschwaderkommodore (Wing Commander) Hannes Trautloft congratulated Kittel, and decreed that he was no longer to be assigned the role of wingman, but would instead be allowed to conduct lone combat patrols.[23][24][25] In early 1943, JG 54 was withdrawn from the frontline to convert to the Fw 190. With a stronger undercarriage for the harsher conditions on the Eastern Front, greater firepower, speed and agility, the fighter was popular among pilots. Kittel, in particular, was pleased. The Fw 190 was an ideal interceptor against the tough and heavily armoured Shturmovik, his favourite target. At this point, after returning to combat, Kittel's victory tally climbed rapidly.[26] By mid-March 1943, Kittel had reached 46 victories, encompassing all types of aircraft.[27]

On 14 or 15 March 1943 while on a mission over the Demyansk pocket, Kittel's Fw 190 suffered engine failure. He was 80 kilometers (50 mi) behind Soviet lines. He removed his precision board clock, an intricately engineered instrument which he was under orders to secure, and landed his Fw 190 which slid 150 meters (490 ft) to a stop in a snow-covered field. During the landing, fellow pilot Herbert Broennle, who had been shot down under similar circumstances, advised Kittel over the radio to hide after landing, to travel only by night and to march compass bearing of 255 degrees (north-west) which would take him to Staraya Russa, towards JG 54's base behind German lines. After exiting his aircraft, Kittel ran for the nearest forest after landing as several locals began emerging from nearby houses. When Kittel got to the forest he found he had left his emergency rations behind, having only a chocolate bar with him. He continued through the forest. In the dense vegetation he was able to move during the day unseen. Resting often, he raided several empty houses and found clothes but no food. Determined to find food, and dressed as a Russian peasant, he passed through several Soviet checkpoints looking for something to eat. Kittel spoke Czech and some Russian and managed to evade detection. En route he stopped at several points and was given food, and eventually Kittel made it to the edge of Lake Ilmen. After nightfall he crossed the frozen lake and made it to German lines, three days after his crash landing.[28]

Following his return, Kittel was promoted to Oberfeldwebel (staff sergeant) on 18 March 1943.[29] Kittel took leave in March/April 1943. By the time he returned Walter Nowotny had taken over the Gruppe (Group). Philipp had left to take command of Jagdgeschwader 1 (JG 1) in Germany, and was later killed in action on 8 October 1943. On 3 May 1943, Kittel scored his first aerial victories since his return, claiming three Soviet aircraft in an operation before machine gun fire from a bomber's rear gunner damaged his aircraft and forced him to crash land.[30] On 10 June 1943, Kittel achieved another aerial victory, taking his total to 50.[31][32]

Kursk and the Baltic

During the fighting in mid-1943, JG 54 took part in many of the spring battles over the Crimea Peninsula, Vyazma-Bryansk, Vitebsk, Kharkov, Orsha and Orel regions. As the spring battles ended, the Germans prepared for Operation Citadel, which led to the Battle of Kursk. During the air battles that followed Kittel's unit escorted Junkers Ju 87 Stukas of III./Sturzkampfgeschwader 2 (Third Group, StG 2, or Dive Bomber Wing 2), commanded by Hans-Ulrich Rudel.[33]

On 5 July 1943, the Germans launched their attack. By this date, Kittel had claimed 56 victories. During the first day of Citadel Kittel became an "ace-in-a-day" claiming six victories. The next day he shot down three more Soviet aircraft. It was at this point Kittel achieved recognition as one of the most prominent German aces. After the German defeat at Kursk, Kittel's combat career continued as the German Army retreated to the Dnieper River. Kittel had achieved a one kill per day average to reach 94 victories on 4 September 1943.[34] Just 10 days later, on 14 September 1943, Kittel claimed his 100th aerial victory, a Yakovlev Yak-9 fighter.[35] The 53rd Luftwaffe pilot to achieve the century mark,[36] he received the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) on 29 October 1943. By the time he was awarded it on 29 October, his tally was 123 aerial victories.[37][38] The presentation was made by Oberst Franz Reuß.[29]

An Fw 190 A-8. Kittel flew the Fw 190 and claimed over 200 of his 267 victories in the type.[39]

On 1 November 1943, Kittel was promoted to the rank of Leutnant (second lieutenant).[29] From then until January 1944 Kittel served a the chief instructor of the Ergänzungs-Jagdgruppe Ost (Training Group East) in Biarritz, France, providing instructor to trainee fighter pilots. Unhappy in a teaching role, Kittel filed several applications to return to combat, and in March 1944 his request was approved. Kittel subsequently returned to JG 54 on the Eastern Front.[40]

In early April achieved his 150th aerial victory. On April 14, he was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves ([Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)) for his 152nd aerial victory, claimed on 12 April. Kittel received the Oak Leaves from Adolf Hitler at the Berghof, Obersalzberg on 5 May 1944, becoming the 449th German to receive the award.[41] In May 1944, 2. Staffel was transferred to augment III. Gruppe (3rd group) of JG 54 fighting on the Western Front to provide air defense for the Reich amidst increasing Allied aerial attacks. In August 1944, a new 2. Staffel was formed from remnants of 3. Staffel, and Kittel was appointed its Staffelkapitän (squadron leader).[42]

Kittel continued to increase his tally, shooting down another 50 aircraft by 26 August 1944, bringing his overall total to 200.[43][Note 2] By this time, Kittel had converted to flying a Fw 190A-6, designated "Yellow 5".[45] By the 27 October 1944, Kittel had achieved 254 victories, a total of 102 in just six months. He earned the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords ([Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)) on 25 November 1944 for 264 victories, only the 113th German serviceman to receive the award.[46][47] Kittel flew to Hitler's headquarters to receive the award and then continued to Germany to spend his leave there. When he returned in January 1945 he took JG 54's second squadron, 2 Staffel. Kittel added a further three victories during his time as the Staffel's leader.[48] By 13 February 1945, Kittel had a personal total of 266 aerial victories.[49]

At 12:06 on 14 or 16 February 1945,[Note 3] Kittel took off with his Geschwader (Wing) flying Fw 190 A-8 "Black 1" (Werknummer—factory number— 690 282) to engage a formation of 14 Shturmovik aircraft over the Courland Pocket.[32] His wingman, Oberfähnrich Renner, later reported: At 12:13 he made contact with the formation at low altitude, no more than 100–150 meters (330–490 ft). Kittel attacked, firing at and damaging several Shturmovik. Kittel damaged one aircraft and chased it. As he closed in for the kill, his Focke-Wulf was hit by return fire from a rear gunner, and descended towards the ground on fire. Kittel, probably incapacitated and unable to use his parachute, did not bail out and the Fw 190 crashed in flames.[50][22] The site of the crash is believed to have been 6 kilometers (3.7 mi) south-west of Džūkste in Latvia.[51][42] Witnesses from Kittel's formation reported that a Shturmovik had been shot down by Kittel before he himself was killed during the air battle having scored his 267th and final victory.[52]

Awards

Notes

  1. ^ In 1935 the municipality was renamed as Krasov.
  2. ^ According to Bergström and Obermaier, Kittel was credited with his 200th aerial victory on 23 August 1944.[44][32]
  3. ^ The date of Kittel's death is uncertain as some sources state 14 February while others give 16 February. If the later date is correct, Kittel was probably killed by a unit of the Soviet 15th Air Army, which carried out large-scale air operations over JG 54 airspace on that date. Kittel remained the highest scoring German ace to be killed in action.[6]
  4. ^ According to Thomas on 26 February 1943.[55]
  5. ^ According to Scherzer as pilot in the I./JG 54.[59] According to Von Seemen as pilot in JG 54.[60]

References

Citations

  1. ^ Weal 2001, p. 123.
  2. ^ Scutts 1992, p. 145.
  3. ^ Sims 1970, p. 174.
  4. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 267.
  5. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 268.
  6. ^ a b Bergström 2008, p. 103.
  7. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 298.
  8. ^ Stockert 2007, p. 105.
  9. ^ Kurowski 2007, p. 10.
  10. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 299–300.
  11. ^ Kurowski 2007, pp. 147–148.
  12. ^ Kurowski 2007, pp. 10–11.
  13. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 268–269.
  14. ^ Prien et al. 2003, p. 184.
  15. ^ Prien et al. 2003, p. 199.
  16. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 270–275.
  17. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 275.
  18. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 277.
  19. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 277–280.
  20. ^ Weal 1998, p. 16.
  21. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 281.
  22. ^ a b Weal 1998, p. 84.
  23. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 285–287.
  24. ^ Kurowski 2007, pp. 67–69.
  25. ^ Bergström 2007, p. 40.
  26. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 288.
  27. ^ Kurowski 2007, p. 65.
  28. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 292–296.
  29. ^ a b c Stockert 2007, p. 106.
  30. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 300–302.
  31. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 302–304.
  32. ^ a b c d Obermaier 1989, p. 39.
  33. ^ Bergström 2007, p. 106.
  34. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 306–311.
  35. ^ Prien et al. 2012, p. 184.
  36. ^ Obermaier 1989, p. 243.
  37. ^ Kurowski 2007, p. 81.
  38. ^ Scutts 1992, p. 101.
  39. ^ Weal 1998, p. 92.
  40. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 316.
  41. ^ Stockert 2007, p. 107.
  42. ^ a b Stockert 2007, p. 108.
  43. ^ Kurowski 2007, pp. 87–88, 139.
  44. ^ Bergström 2008, p. 82.
  45. ^ Weal 1998, pp. 55, 92.
  46. ^ Kurowski 2007, pp. 140–141.
  47. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 317.
  48. ^ Kurowski 1996, p. 320.
  49. ^ Kurowski 2007, p. 142.
  50. ^ Kurowski 1996, pp. 320–321.
  51. ^ Kurowski 2007, p. 147.
  52. ^ Kurowski 2007, pp. 142–143.
  53. ^ a b c Berger 1999, p. 152.
  54. ^ Patzwall 2008, p. 117.
  55. ^ a b Thomas 1997, p. 367.
  56. ^ Patzwall & Scherzer 2001, p. 230.
  57. ^ a b Kurowski 2007, p. 149.
  58. ^ Fellgiebel 2000, p. 257.
  59. ^ a b c Scherzer 2007, p. 444.
  60. ^ Von Seemen 1976, p. 193.
  61. ^ Fellgiebel 2000, p. 81.
  62. ^ Von Seemen 1976, p. 43.
  63. ^ Fellgiebel 2000, p. 46.
  64. ^ Von Seemen 1976, p. 19.

Bibliography

  • Berger, Florian (1999). Mit Eichenlaub und Schwertern. Die höchstdekorierten Soldaten des Zweiten Weltkrieges (in German). Vienna, Austria: Selbstverlag Florian Berger. ISBN 978-3-9501307-0-6. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Bergström, Christer (2007). Kursk—The Final Air Battle: July 1943. Hersham, Surrey: Classic Publications. ISBN 978-1-903223-88-8. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Bergström, Christer (2008). Bagration to Berlin—The Final Air Battles in the East: 1944–1945. Burgess Hill: Classic Publications. ISBN 978-1-903223-91-8. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Fellgiebel, Walther-Peer (2000) [1986]. Die Träger des Ritterkreuzes des Eisernen Kreuzes 1939–1945 — Die Inhaber der höchsten Auszeichnung des Zweiten Weltkrieges aller Wehrmachtteile (in German). Friedberg, Germany: Podzun-Pallas. ISBN 978-3-7909-0284-6. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Kurowski, Franz (1996). Luftwaffe Aces. Winnipeg: J. J. Fedorowicz. ISBN 978-0-921991-31-1. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Kurowski, Franz (2007). Oberleutnant Otto Kittel—Der erfolgreichste Jagdflieger des Jagdgeschwaders 54 (in German). Würzburg, Germany: Flechsig Verlag. ISBN 978-3-88189-733-4. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Obermaier, Ernst (1989). Die Ritterkreuzträger der Luftwaffe Jagdflieger 1939–1945 (in German). Mainz, Germany: Verlag Dieter Hoffmann. ISBN 978-3-87341-065-7. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Patzwall, Klaus D.; Scherzer, Veit (2001). Das Deutsche Kreuz 1941–1945 Geschichte und Inhaber Band II (in German). Vol. II. Norderstedt, Germany: Verlag Klaus D. Patzwall. ISBN 978-3-931533-45-8. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Patzwall, Klaus D. (2008). Der Ehrenpokal für besondere Leistung im Luftkrieg (in German). Norderstedt, Germany: Verlag Klaus D. Patzwall. ISBN 978-3-931533-08-3. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Prien, Jochen; Stemmer, Gerhard; Rodeike, Peter; Bock, Winfried (2003). Die Jagdfliegerverbände der Deutschen Luftwaffe 1934 bis 1945—Teil 6/II—Unternehmen "BARBAROSSA"—Einsatz im Osten—22.6. bis 5.12.1941 (in German). Eutin, Germany: Struve-Druck. ISBN 978-3-923457-70-0. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Prien, Jochen; Stemmer, Gerhard; Rodeike, Peter; Bock, Winfried (2012). Die Jagdfliegerverbände der Deutschen Luftwaffe 1934 bis 1945—Teil 12/III—Einsatz im Osten—4.2. bis 31.12.1943 (in German). Eutin, Germany: Buchverlag Rogge. ISBN 978-3-942943-07-9. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Scherzer, Veit (2007). Die Ritterkreuzträger 1939–1945 Die Inhaber des Ritterkreuzes des Eisernen Kreuzes 1939 von Heer, Luftwaffe, Kriegsmarine, Waffen-SS, Volkssturm sowie mit Deutschland verbündeter Streitkräfte nach den Unterlagen des Bundesarchives (in German). Jena, Germany: Scherzers Miltaer-Verlag. ISBN 978-3-938845-17-2. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Scutts, Jerry (1992). JG 54: Jagdgeschwader 54 Grunherz: Aces of the Eastern Front. Osceola, Wisconsin: Motorbooks. ISBN 978-0-87938-718-1. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Sims, Edward (1970). The Greatest Aces. New York: Ballantine Books. OCLC 1349435. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Spick, Mike (1996). Luftwaffe Fighter Aces. New York: Ivy Books. ISBN 978-0-8041-1696-1.
  • Stockert, Peter (2007). Die Eichenlaubträger 1939–1945 Band 5 (in German). Vol. V. Bad Friedrichshall, Germany: Friedrichshaller Rundblick. OCLC 76072662. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Thomas, Franz (1997). Die Eichenlaubträger 1939–1945 Band 1: A–K (in German). Vol. I. Osnabrück, Germany: Biblio-Verlag. ISBN 978-3-7648-2299-6. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Von Seemen, Gerhard (1976). Die Ritterkreuzträger 1939–1945 : die Ritterkreuzträger sämtlicher Wehrmachtteile, Brillanten-, Schwerter- und Eichenlaubträger in der Reihenfolge der Verleihung : Anhang mit Verleihungsbestimmungen und weiteren Angaben (in German). Friedberg, Germany: Podzun-Verlag. ISBN 978-3-7909-0051-4. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  • Weal, John (1998). Focke-Wulf Fw 190 Aces of the Russian Front. London: Osprey. ISBN 978-1-85532-518-0. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Weal, John (2001). Jagdgeschwader 54 'Grünherz'. Oxford: Osprey. ISBN 978-1-84176-286-9. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)

External links

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