Erich Woitke was a fighter pilot 'ace' serving in the German Luftwaffe during World War II.
11 Facts About Erich Woitke
1.
2.
Erich Woitke recorded his first victory on 27 September 1937, claiming a Republican I-16 "Rata".
3.
Erich Woitke claimed 3 more victories, all "Ratas" before returning to Germany.
4.
Erich Woitke is reputed to have received the German Cross in Gold from Hermann Goring in person, only to hurl the award on the floor while making disparaging remarks.
5.
On 1 October 1940, Erich Woitke was appointed Gruppenkommandeur of II.
6.
Erich Woitke recorded his next victory on 14 February 1941, a Spitfire over Maidstone.
7.
Erich Woitke claimed two victories on 22 June 1941, the opening day of Operation Barbarossa.
8.
Erich Woitke apparently ignored the advice and consequently several pilots and ground crew were killed and wounded, including the gruppe adjutant, Oberleutnant Carl Hartmann.
9.
In October 1942, Erich Woitke was back in front line service, with II.
10.
On 24 December 1944, Erich Woitke was shot down and killed in aerial combat near Aachen in a dogfight with Spitfires.
11.
Erich Woitke was credited with 30 victories, eight on the Russian front, two in Africa, and the rest on the Western Front, including three heavy bombers.