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By the spring of 1918, Manfred von Richthofen had downed eighty
Allied aircraft. It was Sunday, 21st April, 1918 when Richthofen
led 15 Fokker and Albatros Scouts against R.E. 8 reconnaissance
aircraft of the Australian Flying Corps. Coming upon the scene
were Sopwith Camels from No. 209 Squadron.
W.R. May, on first sortie, left the battle on Brown's instructions.
Richthofen, who had been waiting for someone to withdraw from
the dogfight, went in hot pursuit of May. Brown followed, firing
at Richthofen. Brown saw his bullets rake the side of the Triplane.
He saw the pilot turn around, looking back, and then collapse
in his seat. The Red Baron crashed two miles inside British lines.
Signed by the artist.
(Some research indicates that Richthofen may have been shot
by an Australian infantryman.) |
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