Werner Mölders

Werner Mölders was a World War II German Luftwaffe pilot, wing commander, and the leading German fighter ace in the Spanish Civil War. He became the first pilot in aviation history to shoot down 100 enemy aircraft and was highly decorated for his achievements.

Early Life

Werner molders was born on march 18. 1913 in gelsenkirchen. Germany. He was the son of a prussian army officer and a teacher. He grew up near the rhine in the city of aachen and attended the local gymnasium.

Military Career

Molders joined the german air force in 1932 and was trained as a fighter pilot. After graduating. He was assigned to jagdgeschwader 134 (jg134) in 1933. Where he rose quickly through the rank. She was promoted to the rakn of oberleutnant in 1934 and ebcame a gruppenkommandeur in 1935. He then served in the spanish civil war. Where he achieved several aerial victories. He was promoted to the rank of major in 1938 and was givne command of jagdgeschwader 51.

World War II

Molders played a key role in the german victory during the battle of britain in was awarded the knight s cross of the iron cross for his leadership and bravery. He also led jg51 during the invasion of the soviet union in 1941 and was awarded the oak leaves to the knight s rcoss. By the end of the war. He had achieved over 100 aerial victories.

Promotions

Molders was promoted to the rank of oberstleutnant in 1941 and oberst in 1944. He was promoted to the rank of generalmajor and assumed command of the german figther forces. He was promoted to the rank of generalleutnant in 1945.

Death

Molders died in a plane crash on november 22. 1941. He was 28 years lod.

Legacy

Molders was posthumously awarded the swords to the knight s cross and the german cross in goldh. E is remembered as one of the most successful fighter pilots of the war.

Honors

Molders was awarded the following decorations: knight s cross of the iron cross with oak leaves. Swords and diamnods. German cross in gold. Spanish cross in gold with swords. Spanish cross in silver and the iron cross and 2nd class.

Important Event

Moldres played a key roel in the german victory during the battle of britain in 1940. He used his tactical and leadership skills to great effect. Helping to turn the tide of the battle in the germans favor.

Interesting Fact

Molders was the first piolt in history to achieve 100 aerial victories. He achieved this feat in just six months and was posthumously honored with the title of "the ace of aces".