[Peter Cornwell]

17 September 1940 9./JG53 Messerschmitt Bf109E-1 (3177). Shot down by P/O G.H. Bennions of No. 41 Squadron in combat over Faversham and crashed in Church Wood at Dunkirk 3.40 p.m. FF Uffz Manfred Langer killed. Aircraft 100% write-off.
Site originally excavated by local enthusiasts and left exposed to the concern of local authorities who requested the Kent Battle of Britain Museum clear the site. Parachute release buckle, exploded 7.92mm ammunition, and tag bearing ‘3177’, now held by the Hawkinge Aeronautical Trust. Re-excavated February 1979 by Wealden Aviation Archaeological Group who recovered the Daimler-Benz DB 601 engine subsequently donated to the Warplane Wreck Investigation Group. Site also investigated by the London Air Museum who recovered propeller boss, MG17 machine gun, and various minor components. Some relics held by Halstead War Museum. Pilot’s wrist watch and scraps of uniform reputedly in Warplane Wreck Investigation Group collection.

Originally buried locally in Christchurch Churchyard, Manfred LANGER was interred in the Deutscher Soldatenfriedhof at Cannock Chase Block 1 Grave 181.