Identification of ME109, North Africa

[gree1309]

Hi,

I have a photograph my grandfather took of a captured ME109 in North Africa (likely near Tobruk). I am not experienced in identifying aircraft units but i see the plane was probably part of JG53 squadron. Can anyone help me identify anything else about this aircraft or the likely pilot by the markings on the fuselage? Thank you for any help.
Charles

[robert]

Hi Charles,

it`s yellow 4 from 9./JG53.

Regards

Robert

[gree1309]

Hi Robert,

Thank you for your response. Could you explain a bit more what 'yellow 4 from 9' means?

Regards,
Charles

[robert]

Hi,

the number was painted in yellow = yellow 4.
Each German fighter wing (Jagdgeschwader = JG) comprised of three groups (I,II,III./JG...) and each group had three squadrons (1,2,3= I./JG...; 4,5,6=II./JG...; 7,8,9=III./JG...) so your bird was from 9th sqadron of third group of JG53.

Regards

Robert

[gree1309]

Hi Robert,

Thank you very much for the information.

Regards,
Charles

[AndreasB]

Do you have a date for the picture?

All the best

Andreas

[gree1309]

Unfortunately I do not have an exact date. My grandfather's diary indicates the photograph was taken around August to December 1942. It is not very specific.

Best wishes,
Charles

[robert]

Hi,

it was probably abandoned at Sidi Barrani or Quotaifiya in late 1942.

Regards

Robert