Focke Wulfs vs. Thunderbolts - 21st Oct. 1944

[John Manrho]

If you look at the material losses than III./JG 2 lost;

8 Fw 190 100% in combat
1 Fw 190 dam in combat
1 Fw 190 dam (without enemy action)

According to the loss reports III./JG 2 lost 4 KIA, 3 WIA between 15.55 hrs - 16.15 hrs, 6 of those where 100% losses. So we know 2 pilots of III./2 baled out OK. Indeed III./2 claimed 5 P-47's on that day between 16.09-16.15 hrs. Among the KIA was Oblt. Bellstedt, St.Kap. of 9./JG 2 (DKiG) and well known for his exploits with KG 40 (see Chris Goss book)

If you look at the material losses of I./JG 2:

2 Fw 190 100% in combat
2 Fw 190 dam in combat
According to the loss reports of I./JG 2 they lost 1 KIA and 2 WIA. One of the wounded was Lt. Willi Stratmann, Staffelführer of 4./JG 2.

I am not sure both units where involved in the same combat but this seems very likely. Both reported combat with Thunderbolts. There are two more Fw 190 claims in the general area, but they are from a 474th FG P-38 pilot.

The "how come" question can only be answered by obtaining at least the Mission Report for that day of the 365th FG and as many combat reports of the pilots involved. It will probably give you an idea who had the height advantage, one of the main reasons for success or failure of aerial combat.