Manfred von Richthofen

Date of Birth: May 2, 1892

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: April 21, 1918

Biography

Manfred von Richthofen, famously known as the “Red Baron,” was a distinguished German fighter pilot during World War I. Born into a noble family, Richthofen initially served in the cavalry but transferred to the Air Service in 1915. His prowess as a pilot quickly became evident, and he was credited with 80 air combat victories, making him the war’s leading ace. Richthofen’s aircraft, a distinctive red Fokker Dr.I triplane, became an iconic symbol of his fearsome reputation. He commanded the elite fighter wing known as “Jasta 11,” and later the larger “Jagdeschwader 1,” which was nicknamed “The Flying Circus” due to its colorful aircraft and mobility. Richthofen’s career was tragically cut short when he was shot down and killed in April 1918. His legacy endures as one of the most legendary figures in aviation history.

5 Interesting Facts about Manfred von Richthofen

1. Manfred von Richthofen was originally an officer in the cavalry before transferring to the Air Service.

2. He painted his aircraft red, earning the nickname “Red Baron.”

3. Richthofen was credited with 80 confirmed air combat victories.

4. He wrote an autobiographical book titled “Der Rote Kampfflieger” (“The Red Fighter Pilot”).

5. Richthofen was awarded the Pour le Mérite, Germany’s highest military honor, also known as the “Blue Max.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Manfred von Richthofen

1. “Everything depends on whether the individual survives it.”

2. “The quality of the box matters little. Success depends upon the man who sits in it.”

3. “Fight on and fly on to the last drop of blood and the last drop of fuel, to the last beat of the heart.”

4. “I honored the fallen enemy by placing a stone on his beautiful grave.”

5. “It is better that one’s enemies overestimate one’s difficulties than one’s friends underestimate them.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Not applicable—Manfred von Richthofen’s career and legacy were built during wartime, and his financial status was not a significant part of his historical impact.