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Hans RudelThe most famous and successful pilot of the Ju-87 Stuka dive bomber during the Second World War.
Date of Birth: 02.07.1916
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Hans-Ulrich Rudel: The Most Celebrated Stuka Pilot of World War II
- Stuka Ace
- Recipient of the Knight's Cross
- Air Combat Record
- Post-War Activities
- Political Involvement
- Later Years and Legacy
Hans-Ulrich Rudel: The Most Celebrated Stuka Pilot of World War II
Early Life and Military CareerHans-Ulrich Rudel was born on July 2, 1916, in Konradswaldau, Lower Silesia (present-day Poland). He joined the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) in 1936 and trained as a dive bomber pilot.
Stuka Ace
During World War II, Rudel became the most successful dive bomber pilot, flying the legendary Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka." He flew 2,530 combat missions, destroying over 2,000 enemy targets, including 519 tanks, 150 self-propelled guns, 4 armored trains, two cruisers, and a destroyer.
Recipient of the Knight's Cross
Rudel was awarded the Knight's Cross with Golden Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds, making him the only person to receive the complete set of decorations. He also received the Golden Medal for Valour, the highest honor awarded by Hungary to a foreigner.
Air Combat Record
In addition to his ground attack achievements, Rudel shot down 9 enemy aircraft, including 2 Il-2 Sturmoviks and 7 fighters. He is believed to have been responsible for the death of Lev Shestakov, a renowned Soviet ace.
Post-War Activities
After the war, Rudel surrendered to American forces. He published two political pamphlets in Buenos Aires in 1951, arguing for the German rearmament and the continuation of the fight against communism.
Political Involvement
Rudel held extreme right-wing views and attempted to run for the Bundestag from the ultra-conservative Deutsche Reichspartei, but failed to be elected. He remained an active participant in veterans' gatherings.
Later Years and Legacy
Rudel died on December 18, 1982. His skill and bravery as a Stuka pilot made him a legend, while his post-war political activities remained controversial. His memoir, "Stuka Pilot," provides a firsthand account of his wartime experiences.
