Richthofen.... - Luftwaffe and Allied Air Forces Discussion Forum

Zack Schermer · #1 25th March 2006, 00:10

I am new to the forum and I am still trying to figure things out, so forgive me if this information has been posted already but I am looking for information on General von Richthofen. I understand that he died in American captivity and I am wondering how this occured. He was relatively young from what I can gather, maybe 45 or 50. Any information would be appreciated, thanks!!

Zack

Don Pearson · #2 25th March 2006, 00:58

From Wikipedia website:

"he was retired on medical grounds in late 1944 and died of a brain tumor in the American POW camp at Bad Ischl on July 12, 1945."

Don

Zack Schermer · #3 25th March 2006, 01:03

Missed that one (don't know how). Thanks. I wonder what his fate would have been otherwise.

Boomerang · #4 25th March 2006, 13:08

Richthofen was born in Silesia on 10 October 1895.

'A brain tumor caused his retirement from active service in November 1944...and he died on 12 July 1945.

Details from Stopped at Stalingrad by Joel Hayward, which includes a great deal of information about Richthofen's career over the period 1942 - early 1943. Might be a good reference for you.

Regards

Boomerang

Zack Schermer · #5 25th March 2006, 14:56

Thanks, I've read Stalingrad by Anthony Beevor and he is mentioned several times but it doesn't go into much detail, other than it was his bombers that struck Stalingrad in August of 1942. It also mentions his participation the Spanish civil war.