He-111 loss, 17 May 1940, KG "Hindenburg" 1

[jmark]

Hi,

Does anybody have details about the loss of an He-111 from 6./KG "Hindenburg" 1 on 17 May 1940? I believe the pilot was Fw. Martin. What I know is that the plane was shot down near St. Quentin by a French Morane while bombing French troops and at least one of the crew members went into French captivity.

Any details, particularly about the crew, will be greatly appreciated!

Many thanks
Jason

[Peter Cornwell]

Jason,

I think this may be the one you are after:

6./KG1 Heinkel He111H. Both engines damaged in attacks by Capt Peyrègne and Cpl Sika of GC I/8 between Le Cateau and Trélon, and forced-landed at Marchavenne, east of Bohain-en-Vermandois, 6.00 p.m. BO Uffz Gerhard Aurich and BF Uffz Willi Frank captured badly wounded, BS Flgr Johann Güldens captured slightly wounded, rest of crew captured unhurt – all later released. Aircraft 100% write-off.

Can you please advise your source for Fw Martin being its pilot ? Many thanks.

[jmark]

Originally Posted by Peter Cornwell

Jason,

Can you please advise your source for Fw Martin being its pilot ? Many thanks.

Peter, thanks very much for the prompt and helpful reply. Is the plane's call-sign known?

My source is the Flugbuch of Johann Güldens... so it was nice to get confirmation! He received the Wound Badge in Black for his injuries.

All the best,
Jason

[Peter Cornwell]

Many thanks Jason, I have amended my records accordingly. As far as I am aware the full codes of this aircraft were not recorded so if they aren't included in the relevant Flugbuch entry then regretably they are likely to remain so. Thanks again.

[jmark]

Originally Posted by Peter Cornwell

Many thanks Jason, I have amended my records accordingly. As far as I am aware the full codes of this aircraft were not recorded so if they aren't included in the relevant Flugbuch entry then regretably they are likely to remain so. Thanks again.

None of Güldens' entries for sorties with KG "Hindenburg" 1 show the aircraft code. However, once transferred to another Geschwader, he has dutifully noted every one.

[steve sheridan]

Hi Jason, just of curiousity when did Guldens transfer to another unit,
and which Geschwader?

Best regs,
Steve.