He111 i/KG27 lost 16 August 1940

[BrianC]

Hi guys

He111 fell into the sea off the Isle of Wight. I have a note that Ltn Helmut Einicke and his crew (Topper, Hirsch, Koch?) were rescued - but by what mode?

Any information appreciated, please.

Take care, stay safe
Brian

[Chris Goss]

I was in touch with Einicke (if it is the same Lt Helmut Einicke) some years ago but despite flying some 80 missions following joining 7./KG 27 in July 1940 and being taken POW 29 May 1941, made no mention of this incident. Waiss says they were rescued by Seenotrettungsdienst and just Uffz Martin Toepper was injured

[BrianC]

Hi Chris

Again my thanks

Brian

[Nick Beale]

From National Archives HW 13/28: "GNA Vol. II, December 1940 numbered 1–20, 28.12.39 – 31.12.40"

These entries might be relevant:

16.08.40
At 1637 AH informed Boulogne that an aircraft had crashed in Sq. 1123 and that three men had bailed out.
At 1325 D-AWU reported that he had picked up two men and was returning to Le Havre. At 1418 he landed.

Note: "GNA" stood for German Naval Air.

[Chris Goss]

I believe the 2 that were rescued were from III./ZG 76 and that the 1637hrs one could be the He 111

[BrianC]

Belated thanks

Cheers
Brian