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Berthold KortsGerman Luftwaffe ace of World War II
Date of Birth: 21.05.1912
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Berthold Korts: A Legendary Luftwaffe Ace
- Early Career: From Artillery to the Skies
- Rapid Ascent as an Ace
- Astonishing Tally and Knight's Cross
- Fateful Last Flight
- Legacy and Honors
- Iron Cross (1939) 1st and 2nd Class
Berthold Korts: A Legendary Luftwaffe Ace
Berthold Korts, a renowned Luftwaffe ace during World War II, achieved an astonishing tally of 113 enemy aircraft, all claimed on the Eastern Front. His remarkable exploits earned him the coveted Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross.
Early Career: From Artillery to the Skies
Prior to joining the Luftwaffe in mid-1940, Korts served in the Wehrmacht's artillery forces. His transition to aviation proved fruitful as he excelled in flight training, eventually being assigned to the 9th Staffel of JG 52 on the Eastern Front in June 1942.
Rapid Ascent as an Ace
In April 1943, Korts emerged as a formidable aerial warrior, claiming four victories in a single day over the Kuban region. His rapid ascent continued, as he was promoted to Staffelkapitän of 9./JG 52 on May 11, 1943.
Astonishing Tally and Knight's Cross
Korts's tally of downed aircraft climbed steadily, reaching 50 on June 2, 1943, and 75 on August 3, 1943. On August 17, 1943, he reached the remarkable milestone of 100 victories. Tragically, Korts received his Knight's Cross on the same day he was reported missing in action.
Fateful Last Flight
On August 29, 1943, Korts and his wingman Hans-Otto Müller engaged in a fierce air battle with Soviet P-39 Airacobras. Korts's aircraft was last seen on fire, and both he and Müller were presumed погиб.
Legacy and Honors
Despite his untimely demise, Korts's legacy as an extraordinary Luftwaffe ace lives on. His tally of victories remains unmatched by any German fighter pilot on the Eastern Front. In recognition of his exceptional valor, Korts was awarded the following decorations:
Iron Cross (1939) 1st and 2nd Class
Luftwaffe Honor Goblet (February 1, 1943)German Cross in Gold (August 23, 1943)
Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross (August 29, 1943)
