H.Joppien? - JG51 France 1940

[sveahk]

A photo (from my collection) taken in France 1940, most certainly I/JG51. My question: The pilot in the middle, could that possibly be Hptm Hermann Joppien?

Hans K

[Chris Goss]

Certainly looks like him but that is not a Bf 109 E behind so possibly taken later than 1940?

[ouidjat]

Have a look on Prien JFV Teil IV.II page 36.
Very close.. I mean very cloth!

Cheers, Franck.

[Simon Pirec]

JG 51 was first unit which get few Friedrichs in October 1940 (Stab/JG 51) and November 1940 (I/JG 51) so this picture could be from last 2 months of that year when Joppien was Gr.Kdr. of I/JG 51.

[Clint Mitchell]

Was it then Joppien that got the other Bf109F-1 SG+GV with Molder's getting SG+GW.

Slight topic drift but does anyone know how many Bf109F-1's JG51 got during 1940?

[sveahk]

Thanks for your replies, especially Franck. Your Prien-tip pinpointed it - so we can assume that this photo was taken sometimes between October 1940 and springtime of 1941. Joppien obviously carries his Knight's Cross here although it's not quite clear.

As a Bonus for your help, here're two Oberleutnant Joppien-photos (also from my collection) taken before September 1940...

Greetings
Hans K

[ahafan]

Hello
One wonders Has why this formally phograpth was taken.?
its him. his jacket.and iron cross -
look closey see the F-Cannon muzzle covered.
i think JG51 had 3.F-delivered.
sharon