Oswald Boelcke: Germany's First Fighter Ace and Father of Air

Oswald Boelcke: Germany's First Fighter Ace and Father of Air Combat

Oswald Boelcke was Germanyâ€™s first ace in World War One with a total of forty victories. His character, inspirational leadership, organizational genius, development of air-to-air tactics and impact on aerial doctrine are all reasons why Boelcke remains an important figure in the history of air warfare.

Paving the way for modern air forces across the world with his pioneering tactics, Boelcke had a dramatic effect on his contemporaries. The fact that he was the Red Baronâ€™s mentor, instructor, squadron commander and friend demonstrates the influence he had upon the German air force. He was one of the first pilots to be awarded the famous Pour le MÃ©rite commonly recognized as the â€˜Blue Maxâ€™. All of this was achieved after overcoming medical obstacles in his childhood and later life with a willpower and determination.

Boelcke even gained the admiration of his enemies. After his tragic death in a midair collision, the Royal Flying Corps dropped a wreath on his funeral, and several of his victims sent another wreath from their German prison camp. His name and legacy of leadership and inspiration live on, as seen in the Luftwaffeâ€™s designation of the Tactical Air Force Wing 31 â€˜Boelckeâ€™.

In this definitive biography RG Head explores why Oswald Boelcke deserves consideration as the most important fighter pilot of the 20th century and beyond; but also for setting the standard in military aviation flying. This book will appeal to enthusiasts of the German air force, military aviation in general and World War One in particular.
Country USA
Brand Grub Street
Manufacturer Grub Street Publishing
Binding Hardcover
ItemPartNumber Illustrated
ReleaseDate 2016-08-12
UnitCount 1
EANs 9781910690239

Country	USA
Brand	Grub Street
Manufacturer	Grub Street Publishing
Binding	Hardcover
ItemPartNumber	Illustrated
ReleaseDate	2016-08-12
UnitCount	1
EANs	9781910690239

Oswald Boelcke: Germany's First Fighter Ace and Father of Air Combat

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