Customer Reviews

German Fighter Ace Erich Hartmann: The Life Story of the Worlds Highest Scoring Ace

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Erich Alfred Hartmann (1922-1993) is the top-scoring fighter pilot in the annals of aerial combat. He flew for Germany during the Second World War and scored the vast majority of his astounding 352 aerial victories against the Soviets on the Eastern Front. Nicknamed "Bubi" (German for 'boy') because of his youthful countenance, Hartmann was a member of Jagdgeschwader (Fighter Wing) 52 from Novemeber 1942 until the end of the war in May of 1945. On one spectacular mission, Erich shot down four American P-51 Mustangs over the oil fields at Ploesti, Rumania. After the war, Hartmann, who won the Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves, Crossed Swords, and Diamonds, was unceremoniously handed over to the USSR by his American captors. From May 1945 until October of 1955, Erich Hartmann was confined in Soviet prisons and branded a "war criminal" by the vengeful Stalin and his henchmen. While in the gulags, Erich's father and his infant son, whom he had never held, died in Germany. Released in 1955 after the death of Stalin, Hartmann returned to active duty in the new Luftwaffe and was key in training the next generation of German flyers in the ways of aerial combat. Erich retired from active service in 1970 and enjoyed a peaceful life until his passing in September of 1993.

This gorgeous photo album, composed by his loving wife Ursula and introduced by Manfred Jager, chronicles Hartmann's life from his childhood in pre-war Germany, his military training and combat, his inspiring and enduring romance with Ursula Paetsch, and ends with his rebirth in Richthofen Geschwader 71.

I simply cannot recommend this book enough. It is an excellent companion to Toliver & Constable's "The Blonde Knight of Germany", an in-depth biography of Hartmann's life. One does not have to necessarily be an aviation buff to enjoy these titles as Hartmann's story is much, much more than just his accomplishments in the air. His was a life of courage, love, dedication, honor, and perseverance that can serve as an inspiration for all.

I readed it the same way I can look at a family album. The illustrations Ursula choosed to represent her husband, are surprisingly intimate.Throught out the book, I felt very close to Erich Hartmann. I can only admire that man who fought all is life for Germany against the Soviet Union. It's also amasing to think that just before he died, he saw the downfall of the soviet regime and the reunification of Germany. So until the end, he is a true winner! There is only one edition of that book and it's getting hard to find. I strongly advise anibody who's passionate about history and the german military aviation to purchase this precious and unique book.

If you are wanting to read about the life of Erich Hartmann, then this book isn't for your. If you want to SEE an intimate, historic look into his life presented by the one person who knew him best, then this book definitely is for you. "The Blonde Knife of Germany" remains the best history of the World's Top Ace, so this is where to learn more of Hartmann's life. However, I think Ursula's book is a must have and fantastic companion book with "The Blonde Knight". The two belong together on your bookshelf, and you won't be disappointed. Hey, another fine product of Schiffer Publishing!

For those familiar with Erich Hartmann and would rather see him than read about his life, this is your book. Text is limited.

This book was a gift for my husband who is interested in World War II German pilots. He enjoyed the written material and the wonderful photographs. I also enjoyed it. I would recommend this book for anyone who wants to learn more about E. Hartmann and his life story.

Bonnie Abendschoen

Erich Hartmann was so much more than the world's highest scoring fighter pilot. He was a man of great strength and character who was not in the least afraid to stand up for what he believed was right. This excellent book is filled with pictures and commentary from fellow pilots and a loving wife about an amazing individual. A must-read for any WW II aviation enthusiast. I couldn't put it down, so read it cover to cover in a day. This was easy due to the many high quality photographs with captions.

I had no idea just how interesting this book was. From the very first page to the last I was walked through the life of this remarkable man. It became easy to see how he became the hero that he was. A true gentleman and yet a complete warrior. I simply could not put the book down once I started.

Interesting book. Harmann talks about the trials and tribulations of how he became the Worlds #1 ace and the time in spent in a Russian POW camp after the war.