MvR and Lothar question

6 November 2000, 04:58 PM

I have seen photos of Manfred and Lothar together
on the airfield. Did they ever serve together
in the same unit? Why or why not? How long?
I might be able to look this up, but this forum
is like an WWI air war encyclopedia (better,
actually). I know you can help. Thanks.

Barrett · 6 November 2000, 07:59 PM

Manfred and Lothar were together in Jasta 11 and JG.I from early 1917 onward. Lothar remained with the wing after MvR's death in April '18, and commanded Jasta 11 from time to time.

7 November 2000, 08:37 AM

Lothar served in Jasta 40 which was a jasta in Jagdgeschwader Nr. 1 of which Manfred was the Rittmeister

Graeme · 7 November 2000, 10:39 AM

Lothar was never in Jasta 40. He was an observer for a year with KG4 before gaining his pilot's certificate. He achieved 40 victories with Jasta 11 which he first joined on 6 March 1917 when the unit was commanded by Manfred. Lothar was badly wounded on 13 May and did not return to Jasta 11 until September 1917. He was wounded again on 13 March 1918 and was still in hospital when Manfred was killed. Lothar returned to Jasta 11 on 19 July 1918 but was seriously wounded the following month and saw no further combat.