Photos 3-19

[Kjetil Aakra]

Don't know what to make of this:
http://cgi.ebay.de/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?...m=150226774748

Looks very interesting, but the emblem appears to have been drawn (with colour) on the photo and the area around the emblem also seems to be suspicious? Could be artistic lisence from the phorogrpaher/owner, but I would be rather cautious before purchasing this one.

The camouflage and setting corresponds with a 10. or 11./JG 5 Bf 109G-6 or G-14 in winter 1944-45, however. Note the apllication of white distemper of top of the RLM greys. location is probably Gossen airfield.

Thanks for these postings, Ed. You're gonna be mentioned for this in my and Andreas Brekken's new book, by the way, as you have found many photos valuable to us!

Regards,

Kjetil Åkra

[edwest]

Thank you, Kjetil, for your kind words. It would be an honor to be mentioned in your book.



Regards,
Ed

[Kjetil Aakra]

Don't know if its an honor, but it is certainly well-deserved!

Kjetil åkra

[ChrisS]

Hi Kjetil and Ed,

Beware, I've looked it over in detail, there are a number of indications that it is not kosher: such as vertical lines around the edge of the insignia which seems to indicate a cut and past, the insignia is quite 'flat' and does not bend with the curve of the cowling and there are a number of obvious changes/enhancments made to the uniform of the individual.

Take care guys.

Cheers

Chris

[Kjetil Aakra]

Yes, I saw the same thing, Chris and was and remains very sceptical.

Now I see the same has been done to the pilot's rank insignia and I think we should conclude that this is photo that has been tampered with and quite badly so.

The interesting part is that I cannot remember having seen this photo before and the camouflage of the aircraft as well as the settting is consistent with a late-war 109 of 10. and 11./JG 5 from Gossen which are the only 109-equipped Staffeln to feature this emblem.

Regards,

Kjetil