Manfred von Richthofen

Manfred Albrecht Freiherr von Richthofen (2 May 1892 – 21 April 1918), widely known as the Red Baron, was a German fighter pilot with the Imperial German Army Air Service during the First World War. He is considered the ace-of-aces of the war, being officially credited with 80 air combat victories.

Richthofen transferred from the Cavalry to the Air Service in 1915. By 1917 he had distinguished himself as a fighter pilot on the French front and become leader of a large unit. His group was known as the "Flying Circus" for the flamboyant colours of its aeroplanes, which led to his nickname. By 1918, he was regarded as a national hero in Germany, and widely respected even by his enemies.

Richthofen was shot down and killed near Amiens on 21 April 1918 by the combined efforts of Canadian RAF pilot Roy Brown and an Australian ground gun crew. His conquerors gave him an honorable funeral. Many legends and tall tales grew up around the Red Baron after his death.

Manfred von Richtofen in "Cayos in the Stream"
Ernest Hemingway likened falling out of love to "crashing in flames, like a burning Sopwith Camel when the Red Baron prowls."