Heinrich Gontermann

Heinrich Gontermann (25 February 1896 – 30 or 31 October 1917) was a German First World War fighter ace credited with 39 victories during the war. Born in Siegen, Southern Westphalia, Heinrich Gontermann grew into a tall slender man, full of vitality. He abstained from smoking, and was only a social drinker. He was a patriotic, religious introvert. Gontermann's father, a cavalry officer, pushed him towards a career in the military. After leaving ... more

Heinrich Gontermann (25 February 1896 – 30 or 31 October 1917) was a German First World War fighter ace credited with 39 victories during the war. Born in Siegen, Southern Westphalia, Heinrich Gontermann grew into a tall slender man, full of vitality. He abstained from smoking, and was only a social drinker. He was a patriotic, religious introvert. Gontermann's father, a cavalry officer, pushed him towards a career in the military. After leaving school, Heinrich enlisted into the 6th Uhlan Cavalry Regiment in Hanau on 14 August 1914. Only days after arriving in his regiment, he was sent into action. Gontermann had a reputation for being aloof, but during his time with the Uhlans, he displayed leadership abilities. He was wounded in September of that same year, although it wasn't serious, and he was promoted to Feldwebel. Early in the spring of 1915, he was given a field commission as Leutnant and he was also awarded the Iron Cross Second Class. He continued to lead his men throughout... less