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Robert von GreimGerman pilot, Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe from 23 April to 23 May 1945
Date of Birth: 22.06.1892
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Robert Ritter von Greim: A German Ace and Luftwaffe Commander
- World War I
- Interwar Period
- World War II
- Appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe
- Death
- Legacy
Robert Ritter von Greim: A German Ace and Luftwaffe Commander
Early Life and Military CareerRobert Ritter von Greim was born in Bayreuth, Bavaria, on June 22, 1892. His military career began in 1911 when he joined the Bavarian railway battalion as a candidate officer. He attended the military academy in Munich from 1912 to 1915, and was subsequently commissioned as a subaltern officer in the Bavarian Field Artillery Regiment.
World War I
In August 1915, Greim was assigned to flying training and became an observer in the Field Aviation Battalion A 204. He later underwent fighter pilot training and joined the 34th Fighter Squadron in April 1917. Greim quickly distinguished himself as a skilled and courageous pilot, claiming 28 aerial victories during World War I. He became commander of the squadron in June 1917 and participated in several notable engagements, including the air combat over Passchendaele.
Interwar Period
After the war, Greim served in various roles within the newly formed German Air Force (Luftwaffe). He commanded the 5th Air Division during the Polish campaign in 1939 and the V Air Corps during the Norwegian campaign in 1940. From 1941 to 1942, he commanded the Air Command "East" on the Eastern Front.
World War II
In 1943, Greim was appointed commander of the 6th Air Fleet. Under his leadership, the fleet played a key role in the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk. Greim was widely regarded as one of the most capable and experienced commanders in the Luftwaffe.
Appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe
On April 26, 1945, as the war reached its end and Hitler was preparing to commit suicide, he dismissed Hermann Göring as commander-in-chief of the Luftwaffe and appointed Greim in his place. Greim's appointment was a recognition of his exceptional piloting and leadership skills.
Death
Days after taking command, Greim flew to Berlin in an attempt to persuade Hitler to surrender. However, he was seriously wounded and died on May 24, 1945, near the Führerbunker.
Legacy
Robert Ritter von Greim was one of the most decorated and highly respected aviators in German history. His daring exploits and leadership abilities earned him widespread admiration both during and after the war.
