I./ZG 1 claims in 1939 - 1940 - any info?

[rob van den nieuwendijk]

Eugen,

Try to get hold of Die Ritterkreuzträger der Luftwaffe 1939-1945, Band 1 Jagdflieger, by Ernst Obermaier - (second print 1989) -

page 56

Paul Gildner
01.02.1914 born in Nimptsch/Niederschlesien
24/25.02.1943 KIA Gilze-Rijen/Holland
09.07.41 RK; 26.02.43 EL (nr 196)
25.05.42 Deutsche Kreuz

Some info for you: - since 1938 als Unteroffizier with 6./JG 132 (later 3./ZG 1) - took part in campaigns over Poland, Norway and France. Shot down a Blenheim on 10 May 40 and a Morane on 5 June 40. On 26 June 40 his unit became part of the Nachtjagd.

Also Ludwig Becker (page 56)
22.08.11 in Dortmund
26.02.43 north of Schiermonnikoog/Northsea/Holland
01.07.42 RK; 26.02.43 EL (Nr 198 )
04.05.42 Deutsches Kreuz
02.03.42 Ehrenpokal

Belonged to 3./ZG 1 since start of the war - participated over France and his unit was transferred to Nachtjagd in June 40 - On 16/17 Oct 40 he claimed his first victory with 4./NJG 1.

Feb 43 was a costly month of the German nightfighter force.

Regards
Rob