K/88 of Legion Condor

[GuerraCivil]

Yes, leutnant Gerhard Richter was posted in 1.K/88 on July/August 1937. During his service time 8/37 - 1/38 it seems that the unit had still to fly with bomber versions of old Ju 52. The more modern Heinkel 111 went to other Staffels of K/88.

It is likely that Richter flew night bombing missions, as Ju 52 was considered too vulnerable for daylight operations (if fighter escort was not available). It is known that K/88 carried out a large-scale nightbombing attack against Santander on August 1937. When Santander fell, the last Republican base in Northern Spain was Gijón, which fell on 21.10.1937. Although Spanish Nationalists and Legion Condor were victorious, the campaign was not a picnic for K/88. Planes were lost to flak and to enemy fighters. Also engine failures and weather difficulties caused damages and losses.

Teruel campaign 12/37 - 1/38 was also difficult. In the montaneous areas of Spain temperatures could go as low as minus 18 Celsius and weather conditions were challenging for flying operations. The whole K/88 was concentrated to take part in Teruel campaign. On 29.12.1937 all airworthy planes of Gruppe attacked Teruel. After that the efforts were more dispersed. The normal combat risks were there - both enemy flak and fighters took their toll.

By January 1938 the K/88 was installed at Burgo de Osma and it was regrouping to support Nationalist offensive toward Mediterranean coast. But it seems that Gerhard Richter did not took part on it and in spring 1938 he was back in Germany with his combat experience.