Rudolf Wirtgen - 30 June 1944

[Leo Etgen]

Hello

While researching Leutnant Rudolf Wirtgen (14 victories, killed in action 6 October 1944), Staffelführer of 1./JG 2, I came across the information that he was shot down and wounded in aerial combat with Spitfire fighters south of St Andre on 30 June 1944. According to this source (the excellent Luftwaffe Officer Career Summaries by deZeng and Stankey) he was flying a Fw 190 A-6 on that occasion. Does anyone have additional loss list information regarding this incident such as Werknummer and tactical code? Many thanks.

Horrido!

Leo

[Chris Goss]

A-8, 172671

[Leo Etgen]

Hi Chris

That was quick! Thank you very much for your kind help. It is greatly appreciated indeed!

Horrido!

Leo

[Jim P.]

FW 190A-6, 530932, Wirtgen, Uffz. Rudolf, , I., 1., JG 2, , , , , 29-Nov-43, Injured in Notlandung due to engine fire during transit flight., Engine trouble bei St. Dizier per loss. Transit flight should be non-combat (H), but conflicts with loss., Lfl.3/Eins.Westen, Gen.Qu.6.Abt. (mfm #12)-Vol.24; Prien, et al, Die Jagdfliegerverbände, X.4, p.453; Ring, JG 2 loss list, p.18, , 30km südöstlich Châlons sur Marne, 100%, F, , ,

FW 190A-8, 172671, Wirtgen, Ltn. Rudolf, , I., 1., JG 2, , , , , 30-Jun-44, Stfhr. WIA due to Luftkampf with Spitfires. FSA., , FR, Ring, JG 2 loss list, p.27; Frappé, La LW face au débarquement allié, p.20, 319, , südlich St. Andre, 100%, F, , ,

FW 190A-8, 171572, Wirtgen, Ltn. Rudolf, , I., 1., JG 2, weiße, 4 +, , , 06-Oct-44, Stfhr. MIA after Luftkampf with 8 Spitfires., , RLV, WASt; Ring, JG 2 loss list, p.32, , s'Hertogenbosch, 100%, F, , ,

[Leo Etgen]

Hi Jim

Many thanks for posting the additional details. He had an interesting career being successful over Italy and Normandy in 1944 so it is nice to know as much about him as possible. Your help is much appreciated!

Horrido!

Leo

[Stephen M. Fochuk]

Where is St. Andre located?

[Chris Goss]

St Andre De L'Eure (?) is SW of Evreux