Reinhold Hoffmann (9 August 1921 – 24 May 1944) was a Luftwaffe ace and recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross during World War II. The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross was awarded to recognise extreme battlefield bravery or successful military leadership. On 24 May 1944, Reinhold Hoffmann attempted an emergency landing at Friesack following aerial combat. His Fw 190 crashed, killing him instantly. He was posthumously awarded the Knight's Cross on 28 January 1945. During his career he was credited with 67 aerial victories, 3 on the Western Front and 64 on the Eastern Front.
Reinhold Hoffmann | |
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Born | 9 August 1921 Petersdorf |
Died | 24 May 1944 Friesack | (aged 22)
Allegiance | Nazi Germany |
Service/ | Luftwaffe |
Years of service | ?–1944 |
Rank | Oberleutnant |
Unit | JG 54 |
Battles/wars | World War II |
Awards | Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross |
According to US historian David T. Zabecki, Hoffmann was credited with 66 aerial victories.[1]