[drifter206]

Hi all
Thanks to Matti, loss report from

1943-09-14, 15./KG 53, Do 17 Z-3, 2673, Gruda-Dubrownik
Flugzeugführer Major Joachim, Gerhard,
Beobachter Ofw Gerbeth, Paul,
Bordfunker Ofw Fleischhut, Artur,
Bordmechaniker Ofw Frey, Emil,
Kr.Ber. Sonderführ. Schoenen, Heinz,
Beim Start ausgebrochen. Bruch 100 %.


In Ciglić Savić book Dornier Do 17 The Yugoslav story there is mention of this case and that Gerhard Joachim plus Emil Frey were seriously wounded. True reason for crash is still unknown and so is exact location. I was searching for more info but was not able to find anything including pictures.


Also in the same book is:
Major Gerhard Joachim became Staffelkapitan in "December" 1942 and he remained at this post until disbandment of this unit.
Oddly enough they kept Major Nikola Mikec as his counterpart...


and the thing about Gruda airfield in that period is also very complicated story, surrender of Italian forces, fight with German forces, recce flight of 15(kroat)/53KG in that period...


rittermeister I sent you PM


best regards
Antun