I/KG53 Losses 14.5.40

[steve sheridan]

Hi, im looking for further information as regards losses on the 14.5.40.
I understand I/KG53 lost several a/c this day.

I have no squadron codes or W.Nr's, and no crash locations.

Oblt. Walter Kogl,
Ofw. Willi Schmidt,
Fw. Kurt Acker,
Uffz. Eustach Benkert.

I know W.Nr and codes are notoriously rare for this period, but any help is gratefully accepted.

Best Regs,
Steve.

[Peter Cornwell]

Hello Steve,

All I have on these losses at present:

2./KG53 Heinkel He111H. Hit by flak during sortie to attack rail targets between Dun and Verdun. Collided with Lt Anders aircraft and crashed at Thiaumont 4.30 p.m. Oberlt W. Kögl, Oberfw W. Schmidt, and Fw K. Acker killed. Major K. Wolfien (Staffelkapitän) and Fw A. Scherl baled out and captured unhurt. Aircraft a write-off.

2./KG53 Heinkel He111H. Rammed by Oberlt Kögl’s damaged aircraft and crashed near Thiaumont 4.30 p.m. Fw W. Völter, and Flgr E. Rotter killed. Uffz E. Benkert, Lt K. Anders and Uffz E. Schmidt baled out and captured unhurt. Aircraft a write-off.

[steve sheridan]

Good evening Peter,
Many thanks for the information youv'e provided, thats most helpful.
At least its given me the Staffel involved, as well as location and time.

Thank you ever so much,
Best Regs,
Steve.