KNIGHT'S CROSS - Framed Collector's Piece

Erich Hartmann in his Me109 closes in to within 100 metres of a Russian Ilyushin II, one of his many close encounters high over the Eastern Front.

One name stands out above all others in the annals of air fighting – Erich Hartmann. His prowess in combat became legend even before the course of WWII was run. His 352 aerial victories is a record that is never likely to be surpassed. As the deeds of the great aces of WWII become misted in time, his name above all, will be remembered for his astonishing record.

Supreme flying skills with the courage and ability to push his aircraft to the very limit, were his trade mark. His method of attack was to approach at high speed and get in so close to his adversary ‘ that his aircraft filled my windshield’ before firing his guns. This required great flying skill, considerable nerve, and was not without its problems: On eight occasions Hartmann’s own aircraft was brought down by the debris of his opposite number.

Originally published back in 1989, Robert’s legendary print was personally signed in pencil prior to release by Hartmann himself: