Manfred von Richthofen, more famously known as the Red Baron, is arguably the most famous and widely recognised German fighter pilot to ever take to the skies in the history of warfare. During his flying career in the First World War, Richthofen was officially credited with 80 enemy kills, a number which dwarfs other famous pilots such as Douglas Bader who scored 22 enemy kills. Originally a cavalryman, Richthofen transferred to the Air Service in 1915 where his skills as a pilot were quickly recognised. By 1918, he was regarded as a national hero in Germany and his death in April rocked the nation.
This documentary tells the true story of Manfred von Richthofen, using sensational original footage shot during the First World War. It covers his life through its entirety, from his birth in Schlesien through to the flying exploits of this astonishing German hero, including the dog fights of June 1917 in Flandern. In the air at this time, the Allies securely maintained air superiority and all available German hunter squadrons were thrown into the battle in order to subdue their opponents.
Richthofen and his fellow pilots mastered the tasks given to them brilliantly and performed truly astounding feats in the air. The four hunter squadrons of the JG 1 took over the airspace within a time frame of just two weeks, achieving a staggering 40 aerial victories.
While the Germans were flying high with the recent turn of events, disaster struck when Richthofen failed to return after an enemy flight. What happened on this fateful flight and how did the Red Baron actually meet his end? The answer to that question, which has been asked for almost a century, is finally revealed in this stunning documentary about one of the greatest heroes of the German Luftwaffe. Complete with a selection of bonus footage and scores of original photographs, some of which have never been seen, this DVD will appeal greatly to military and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Produced by - Pen & Sword Digital
Duration - 90 mins (2 discs)
Format - 14:9 and 16:9
B/W
DVD only