Major Heinrich Ehrler KIA 04.04.45

[Ruy Horta]

Originally Posted by Melvin Brownless

Hi to all,

Does anyone have details regarding the loss of Heinrich Ehrler who was shot down by return fire from two Boeing B-17's on the 04.04.45?
http://www.aircrewremembrancesociety.com/

At least some sources claim he died ramming or at least in a ramming attempt. IIRC Walther Schuck also mentions the event in his autobiography: Abschuss!

[robert_schulte]

The book on the JG7 by Manfred Boehme gives the following:

"There are different versions of what transpired during his last battle. According to one version Ehrler shot down two Fortresses then bade Weissenberger farewell over the radio, 'Theo, I've used up all my ammunition, I'm going to ram! See you in Valhalla!'
It is not certain that he really made this dramatic transmision, although it would have corresponded to his state of mind at the time. The wording of the death certificate, signed by Major Weissenberger and Oblt. Schuck, Staffelkapitän of 3./JG7, gives no clue as to the precise cause of the crash:
'Major Ehrler failed to return from a combat sortie on April 6, 1945. A body was found on April 7, 1945 near Stendal and an autopsy revealed that it was that of Major Heinrich Ehrler. Major Heinrich Ehrler was buried in Stendal cemetery on April 10, 1945.' "

Walter Schuck states in his book "Abschuss", "whether Ehrler did ram actually or his plane was shot up by the rear gunner of the attacked B-17 during the ram attempt will remain one of the many unsolved fates of the war..... Ehrler was not the first and also not the last one, who made an enemy plane crash by ramming or who attempted to ram."

Both authors differ on the date of Ehrlers loss: Boehme gives the 6th April, whereas Schuck gives the 4th April.

Hope this helps,
Robert

[Melvin Brownless]

Many thanks to Horst, Ruy and Robert for the additional information regarding the loss of Major Ehrler, fascinating reading!! Thanks guys.

Kind regards

Melvin

http://www.aircrewremembrancesociety.com/