[G.R.Morrison]

Hptm. Hans-Christoph Büttmann was KIA 5.Oct. 1944 near Nijmegen in Me 262A-2a WNr.170093 of 3./KG(J)51. Most photos of I/KG(J)51 machines in this period show a dense, dark scribbled or mottled camouflage. This unit decorated its jets with a colored nose tip (yellow for 3. Staffel) and sometimes the tip of the fin/rudder.

If you wish to see how artist Jim Laurier interpreted this finish, find Forsyth & Creek, Me 262 Bomber and Reconnaissance Units (Osprey Combat Aircraft No.83, c2013), wherein you will find examples from 1. & 2. Staffeln, though not 3. If you are unfamiliar with these, the unit code “9K” was painted quite small, to the left of the fuselage cross, the individual letter to the right of the cross: “B” full-size, in yellow, and a small Staffel designator (L for 3. Staffel). Our db lists Foreman/Harvey, Me 262 Combat Diary as having a photo on p.73, but the title is not at-hand, so I cannot comment on it.

Good luck with your painting,

GRM

P.S. I don’t recall if there was a second Me 262 in the 401 Sq. encounter, but Uffz. Gerhard Francke of 3./KG(J)51 was lost 5.Oct. 1944 in WNr.170082, “9K+PL” in an air battle at Engden near Nordholm.