Hptm Alfons Orthofer (Gruko II./StG77) and the sinking of the cruiser "Chervona Ukraina" 12.Nov.41

[Andrey Kuznetsov]

Hello gentlemen,

according to many secondary sources, Hptm Alfons Orthofer (Gruko II./StG77, RK from 23.Nov.1941) took part in the sinking of the cruiser "Chervona Ukraina" on 12.Nov.1941 in Sevastopol (biggest loss of Black Sea Fleet during the war).

But II./StG77 was in Orsha (1100 km from Sevastopol) at the moment.

Also, according to IV.Fliegerkorps report for 12.Nov.41, the sole active Ju87 unit on that day in Crimea was III./StG77 (26 sorties against sea targets in Kerch port and 4 against land targets).

Claims about cruisers were made by level bombers only.

What is the origin of the info about Orthofer's participation?

[Andrey Kuznetsov]

Is the II./StG77 activity during November 1941 remains totally unknown except the relocation from Orscha to Kraków?

[Andrew Arthy]

Hi Andrey,

From a 6./St.G. 77 logbook, missions were flown from Orel in mid- to late-October, and also on 4 and 5 November. On 9 November transfer to Gomel, then on 10 November to two places I can't make out, to Uman on 22 November, and eventually to Krakau on 26 November.

Hopefully someone can add more.

Cheers,
Andrew A.
Air War Publications - www.airwarpublications.com/earticles

[Andrey Kuznetsov]

Thank you, Andrew!

Originally Posted by Andrew Arthy

From a 6./St.G. 77 logbook, missions were flown from Orel in mid- to late-October, and also on 4 and 5 November. On 9 November transfer to Gomel, then on 10 November to two places I can't make out, to Uman on 22 November, and eventually to Krakau on 26 November.

Most interesting thing (12 November) is remaining unknown as it often happens

But it seems the absence in IV.Fliegerkorps Lagebericht of would-be II./StG77 sorties to Sevastopol harbour speaks against the reality of that event.

Cheers,
Andrey