April 8, 1917

Böhme writes

Böhme writes

Explore all event connections

Event Highlights

Location Map

Event Narrative

'From: Letters from a German fighter pilot to a young girl by Erwin Böhme. This morning I visited Richthofen, who has now become a cavalry captain. He had just shot down number 38. It is amazing how far he has brought his squadron in such a short time. He has a bunch of great guys around him who would walk through fire for him; his younger brother Lothar has also recently joined the squadron. Richthofen himself is in great shape; even though he takes off five times a day, he shows no signs of fatigue. What pleases me is that he is so unpretentious, a distinguished but very natural person – he is always particularly cordial towards me. It would be good if he were soon put in charge of the entire fighter force. After Boelcke – who had already died a heroic death – he would be ‘the right man for the job.’

This archive experience was curated by Hein Poblome with care, patience, and a lot of passion. If you enjoy the work and would like to support the project, buying him a coffee is a wonderful way to help. Support on Buy Me a Coffee