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Gunnar,
Pègoud was endeared by the French people, and his exploits were very much reported by the French media. It was the French newspapers coined the term "Un As" in describing his attaining five victories. Is it possible Le Rendu and Pègoud fabricated the events of 5 Feb? Yes, it is possible. Are German records incomplete and perhaps contain intentional and unintentional ommissions. Based on claims v. losses 1914-18 overall; imo very probable.
What's important is that world history credits Pègoud as being the first Flying Ace. Do you propose he be stripped of this title because Germany has no record of loses on this day!?
BTW it appears to me at least, that Aviatik was a generic term
used by both Germany and France early in the War to describe a 2-seater. (I.E. französischer Aviatiker)
VBR
Rod
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