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Photo of Knights Cross with Oakleaves recipient
Oberleutnant Heinz Schmidt . ca. 1942-43
Born:
20 April 1920 in Bad Homburg v.d.H., the son of metal worker Adolf Schmidt. His childhood friends called him "Johnny".
Units:
01.10.38-09.11.38-11.04.39 Flieger-Ersatzabteilung 14 Detmold
10.11.39-07.08.39 3. Kompanie-Ersatzabteilung 72 Detmold
01.10.38-00.00.00 Flugzeugführerschule (M) Buer
01.10.38-00.00.00 Flugzeugführerschule Laucha
01.10.38-00.00.00 Flugzeugführerschule A/B Plauen Schülerkompanie
17.05.40-15.07.40 2./Jagdfliegerschule 3, Stolp-Reitz
17.07.40-11.08.40 2./Erg. Jagdgruppe, Magdeburg
12.08.40-18.08.40 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
19.08.40-12.09.40 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
13.09.40-26.09.40 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 5 Staffel
27.09.40-31.01.42 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
01.02.42-22.07.43 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
23.07.43-05.09.43 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 6 Staffel
Page 7/8 from Schmidt's Wehrstammbuch.
Rank:
00.00.00 Flieger
01.12.39 Gefreiter
01.10.40 Obergefreiter
01.12.40 Unteroffizier
01.04.41 Feldwebel
01.04.41 K.O.A.
27.08.41 Oberfeldwebel
01.02.42 Leutanant (Kr. O.)
01.08.42 Oberleutnant (Kr. O.)
16.08.43 Staffelkäpitan
Awards:
00.00.00 Flugzeugführerabzeichen (Pilots Badge)
22.10.40 Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class)
09.11.40 Eiserne Kreuz 1. Klasse (Iron Cross 1st Class)
01.05.41 Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Silber (Operational flying clasp in Silver for fighters)
22.08.41 Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold (Operational flying clasp in Gold for fighters)
06.07.42 Ehrenpokal fur besondere Leistung im Luftkreig (Honor Goblet)
20.08.42 Deutsches Kreuz in Gold (German Cross in Gold)
23.08.42 Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross)
30.08.42 Medaille "Winterschlacht Im Osten 1941/42" (Winter War Medal 1941/42)
16.09.42 Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz Mit Eichenlaub (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross with Oakleaves, No. 124)
12.12.42 Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold mit Anhänger (Operational flying clasp in Gold with pendant for fighters)
History:
April1930
Heinz Schmidt attended the Realgymnasium—a secondary school built on the mid-level Realschule to achieve the Abitur (university entry qualification)—in Bad Homburg.
1933
26 June 1933
Thirteen year old Heinz Schmidt enters the Hitler Youth (Hitlerjugend (HJ—Hitler Youth) where he attained the rank of Kameradschaftsführer (Comrade Unit Leader) and learned to fly glider aircraft.
1938
March 1938
Heinz graduates from Realgymnasium—a secondary school built on the mid-level Realschule and achieves the Abitur (university entry qualification)
10 November1938
After Schmidt completed his compulsory Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD—Reich Labor Service) with RAD department 6/225 in Heubach/Schlüchtern, he joined the military service of the Luftwaffe with 3./Flieger-Ersatz-Abteilung 14 in Detmold.
1939
10 November 1939
Schmidt is posted to the 3. Kompanie of Ersatzabteilung 72 Detmold to undergo more intensive military training. These early training excercises would begin the gunnery skills which would serve Schmidt so well on the Russian Front.
Flieger Schmidt's Schiessbuch or shooting booklets for the K98 (left) and for light machine gun. ca. 1939
Photo of young Flieger Heinz Schmidt from
his Fliegerische Beurteilungs book. ca. 1939
1 December 1939
Schmidt receives his first promotion to the rank of Gefreiter.
1940
17 July 1940
Schmidt is posted to the 2nd staffel of Ergänzung Jagdgruppe, Magdeburg to undergo his final flight training prior to being posted to an operational fighter unit..
12 August 1940
Gefreiter Schmidt is posted to the 4th Staffel (II. Gruppe) of Jagdgeschwader 52 then operating against the UK in the Battle of Britain and operating from bases in Peuplingues, flying Bf109E's.
22 October 1940
Obergefreiter Schmidt is awarded the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) mostly likely for the prescribed amount of "feindefluge" against the UK.
9 November 1940
Still without a single victory Schmidt is awarded the Eiserne Kreuz 1. Klasse (Iron Cross 1st Class). Although Schmidt would not score a victory during his time flying against the UK the experience gained during this time obviously had much to do with his future success in the East..
1 December 1940
Obergefreiter Heinz Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Unteroffizier.
1941
1 April 1941
Unteroffizier Heinz Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Feldwebel.
1 May 1941
Following 62 operational flights Schmidt is awarded the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Silber (Operational flying clasp in Silver for fighters). At the time of his meeting the criteria for the award he was the rank of Unteroffizier.
22 June 1941
Invasion of the Soviet Union, 4th Staffel of Jagdgeschwader 52 is based in Suwalki flying Bf 109F's, II Gruppe was temporarily under the control of Jagdgeschwader 27 as part of Heeresgruppe Mitte.
26 June 41
At 14:27 pm Feldwebel Heinz "Johnny" Schmidt scores the 1st of his eventual 173 victories, shooting down a Soviet DB-3 (1st victory) South of Varena.
3 July 41
Flying from the II./JG 52 base in Molodelzno (Minsk) Schmidt shoots down a Soviet DB-3 (2nd victory) at 19:03. On this same day due to the rapid German advance II./JG52 transfers its base to Sloboda.
Aerial victory confirmation certificate for Schmidts 3 July victory over an RZ (2nd victory).
5 July 41
Aerial victory confirmation certificate for Schmidts 5 July victory over a DB3.
22 August 41
Following 116 operational flights Feldwebel Schmidt is awarded the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold (Operational flying clasp in Gold for fighters).
25 August 41
Photo of Feldwebel Heinz Schmidt from his
Personalnachweis
26 August 41
27 August 41
Feldwebel Heinz Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Oberfeldwebel.
29 August41
7 September 41
8 September 41
9 September 41
11 September 41
12 September 41
28 October 41
26 November 41
1942
1 February 42
Oberfeldwebel Heinz Schmidt is commssioned an officer and is promoted to the rank of Leutnant (Kriegs Offizier).
Recently commisioned Leutnant Schmidt. (early 42)
6 July 42
Following his forty ninth? aerial victory Schmidt receives the Ehrenpokal fur besondere Leistung im Luftkreig (Honor Goblet).
1 August 42
Leutnant SAchmidt is promoted to the rank of Oberleutnant (Kr. O.)
20 August 42
Following his sixty fifth aerial victory Lt. Heinz Schmidt receives the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold (German Cross in Gold)
22 August 42
On the previous day Lt. Waldmar Semelka of II./JG 52 is shot down and killed by Pe-2's of 86 BAP (Bombardirovochnyy Aviatsionyy Polk) and the in return pays them back on this day by shooting down three of it's handful of remaining Pe-2's. All three of the Pe-2's are claimed by Lt. Schmidt (his 70th, 71st and 72nd victories).Russian records indicate three losses to 86 BAPon that day north of Akatov with Ml. Lt Grigoriy Yakovlevich Velikanndo, Lt. Markel Yakovlevich Aleksandrov and Lt. Vailiy Ivanovich Selivyerst all being reported missing although Lt. Selivyerst and his crew appear to have been lost to Flak..
23 August 42
Following his 72nd aerial victory and only three days after receiving the Deutsches Kreuz im Gold Oberleutnant Schmidt is awarded the Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross). Schmidt becomes only the third member of the II. Gruppe Jagdgeschwader 52 to date to receive the Knights Cross, receiving his decoration on the same day as Gerhard Barkhorn. This day proved more eventful because it also signaled the main German assault across the Don towards Stalingrad.
30 August 42
In recognition of his service on the Russian Front during the previous years offensive Schmidt is decorated with the Medaille "Winterschlacht Im Osten 1941/42" (Winter War Medal 1941/42).
16 September 42
Folllowing his 100th aerial victory Oberleutnant Schmidt is awarded the Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz Mit Eichenlaub (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross with Oakleaves), making him the 124th receipient of the Oakleaves. Schmidt was the second member of II. Gruppe to receive this award and only the fourth recipient from this unit for the entire war.
Leutnant Heinz Schmidt displaying his
recently awarded Oakleaves to the
Knights Cross. ca. Sept. 42
Newly awarded Oakleaves receipients, Schimdt shown
upper right, from the 27 Oktober 1942 issue of Der Adler.
Detail of Schmidt's picture.
Oberleutnant Heinz Schmidt. ca. winter 42
Oberleutnant Heinz Schmidt pictured in front of
a Do.17 (unit unknown) ca. winter 42
12.December 42
After completing 502 operational fighter sorties Oberleutnant Schmidt recieves the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold mit Anhänger (Operational flying clasp in Gold with pendant for fighters).
1943
7 January 43
125th
Color photo of Leutnant Schmidt wearing
his Knights Cross with Oakleaves and
fighter clasp with hanger. late 42 - early 43
272 February 43
Report of Leutnant Heinz Schmidt about the parachute jump from his burning aircraft over the sea of Azov on 17.2.1943
During my visit to the Kriegslazarett I/ 606, Melitopol, on February 22, 1943, Lieutenant Heinz Schmidt told me:
During the transfer flight on 17.2.1943 to Zaporozhe I suddenly noticed over the Sea of ??Azov that the engine was burning. I could only say "machine is burning, must get out". Cause is unknown. Already the flames were hitting the cabin and I could not put the machine on my back, as I intended. When disembarking, I had to fly with my right shoulder against the tail, because I could only use the parachute with the left hand.
27 July 43
Schmidt is transferred to the 6th Staffel (II. Gruppe) Jagdgeschwader 52 then based in Nikolayev and flying Bf 109G.
1 August 43
Leutnant Schmidt is promoted in rank to Oberleutnant .
16 August 43
Schmidt is appointed Staffelkapitan of 6th staffel following the death of his predecessor Oberleutnant Karl Ritzenberger.
3 September 43
5 September 43
Oberleutnant Heinz Schmidt engages and records two victories over Il-2's at 9:00 and 10.05 respectively (his 172nd and 173rd victories) in the area of Kotelwa-Senkow 100km W Charkow, SU. For Schmidt these would be his final victories as he did not return from this sortie. There appears to be some confusion as to what events transpired that lead to Schmidts death, Hungarian fighters have been possibly blamed for his accidental death or possibly one of the German pilots from his own flight.. Regardless of the circumstances Schmidt is posted missing in action along with his Me109G-6 (Werk nummer 15903), Yellow 7. At the time of Schmidt's death he had made over 700+ fighter sorites and had amassed 173 aerial victories, a tally which by wars end made him the ninth most successful pilot in the star filled ranks of Jagdgeschwader 52 and would have him tied with Emil Lang as the 26th most successful fighter pilot in the Luftwaffe.
Lost:
Oberleutnant Heinz Schmidt FF
6./JG52 Staffelkäpitan
|
Present
Heinz Schmidt remains one of the many Wehrmacht soldiers whose remains are missing to this day.
Career Hilghlights
1. Heinz "Johnny" Schmidt (20 April 1920 – 5 September 1943) was a fighter ace credited with 173 enemy aircraft shot down in 712 combat missions.
All of his victories were claimed over the Eastern Front.
2.One of Gerhard Barkhorn's early tutors, (301 victories, #2 All-Time) "Johnny" Schmidt participated in the Battle of Britain, Operation Barbarossa, the Battle of Moscow,
Battle of the Kerch Peninsula and the Battle of the Caucasus.
3. Shot down twice many miles behind enemy lines, in Bf109 Wk# 5541 & 14556, he successfully returned to duty both times.
4.Three times over his career, he made Ace-in-a-Day by scoring 5 victories in a single day.
Victory Claims:
Date
|
Rank
|
Unit
|
Cl #
|
Aircraft
|
Place
|
Time
|
Opponent
|
Conf.
|
1-25
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
26.06.41
|
Fw
|
4. Staffel
|
1
|
DB-3
|
S. Varena
|
14:27
|
?
|
Yes
|
03.07.41
|
Fw
|
4. Staffel
|
2
|
RZ
|
?
|
19:03
|
?
|
Yes
|
04.07.41
|
Fw
|
4. Staffel
|
3
|
DB-3
|
?
|
12:02
|
?
|
Yes
|
05.07.41
|
Fw
|
4. Staffel
|
4
|
DB-3
|
?
|
06:35
|
?
|
Yes
|
29.08.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
5
|
|
|
|
?
|
Yes
|
30.08.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
6
|
|
|
|
?
|
Yes
|
30.08.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
7
|
|
|
|
?
|
Yes
|
08.09.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
8
|
|
|
|
?
|
Yes
|
08.09.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
7
|
DB-3
|
Salogabowka
|
17.32
|
?
|
Yes
|
10.09.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
8
|
|
|
|
?
|
Yes
|
11.09.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
9
|
I-18
|
SO Nogly?
|
07.50
|
?
|
Yes
|
12.09.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
10
|
|
|
|
?
|
Yes
|
13.09.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
11
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
28.10.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
12
|
DB-3
|
NO Woloklamsk
|
14.03
|
?
|
|
26.11.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
13
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
27.11.41
|
Ofw
|
4. Staffel
|
14
|
I-300
|
S Klin
|
13.04
|
?
|
|
26.05.42
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
15
|
Il-2
|
O Protopopowka
|
11.37
|
?
|
|
27.05.42
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
16
|
Pe-2
|
O Petrowskaja
|
15.27
|
?
|
|
27.05.42
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
17
|
Pe-2
|
SO Petrowskaja
|
15.48
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
18
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
19
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
20
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
21
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
22
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
23
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
24
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
25
|
|
|
|
|
|
26-50
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
28.05.42
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
26
|
Il-2
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
27
|
Il-2
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
28
|
I-16
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
29
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
30
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
31
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
32
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
33
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
34
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
35
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
36
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
37
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
38
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
4. Staffel
|
39
|
|
|
|
|
|
30.06.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
40
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
02.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
41
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
02.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
42
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
04.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
43
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
04.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
44
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
04.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
45
|
Hurricane
|
|
|
|
|
09.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
46
|
Pe-2
|
|
|
|
|
09.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
47
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
10.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
48
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
16.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
49
|
I-16
|
|
|
|
|
19.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
50
|
LaGG-3
|
|
|
|
|
51-75
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
51
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
52
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
53
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
54
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
55
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
57
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
58
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
61
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
62
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
63
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
?
|
Lt
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
23.07.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
65
|
Il-2
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
66
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
67
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
68
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
69
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
22.08.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
70
|
Pe-2
|
PQ 40743
|
09.17
|
86 BAP
|
Yes
|
22.08.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
71
|
Pe-2
|
PQ 40723
|
09.20
|
86 BAP
|
Yes
|
22.08.42
|
Lt
|
5. Staffel
|
72
|
Pe-2
|
PQ 40733
|
09.22
|
86 BAP
|
Yes
|
|
Lt
|
|
73
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
74
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
75
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
76-100
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
76
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
77
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
78
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
79
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
80
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
81
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
82
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
83
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
84
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
85
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
86
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
87
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
88
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
89
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
90
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
91
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
92
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
93
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
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Lt
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94
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?
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Lt
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95
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?
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Lt
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96
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?
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Lt
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97
|
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?
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Lt
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98
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?
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Lt
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99
|
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?
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Lt
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100
|
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?
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101-125
|
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Lt
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101
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?
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Lt
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102
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?
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Lt
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103
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?
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Lt
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104
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?
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Lt
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105
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?
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Lt
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106
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?
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Lt
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107
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?
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Lt
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108
|
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?
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Lt
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109
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?
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Lt
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110
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?
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Lt
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111
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?
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Lt
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112
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?
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Lt
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113
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?
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Lt
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114
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?
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Lt
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115
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?
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Lt
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116
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?
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Lt
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117
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?
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Lt
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118
|
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?
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Lt
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119
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?
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Lt
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120
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?
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Lt
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121
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?
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Lt
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122
|
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?
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Lt
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123
|
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?
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Lt
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124
|
|
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?
|
|
07.01.43
|
Lt
|
|
125
|
LaGG-5
|
PQ 28812
|
13.17
|
3 GIAP
|
Yes
|
126-150
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lt
|
|
126
|
|
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?
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Lt
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127
|
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?
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Lt
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128
|
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?
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Lt
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129
|
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?
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Lt
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130
|
|
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?
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28.07.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
131
|
P-39
|
PQ 76884
|
10.20
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
132
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
133
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
134
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
135
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
136
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
137
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
138
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
139
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
140
|
|
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|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
141
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
142
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
143
|
|
|
|
?
|
|
07.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
144
|
La-5
|
PQ 60834
|
18:30
|
?
|
Yes
|
08.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
145
|
Jak-1
|
PQ 60481
|
10:15
|
?
|
Yes
|
10.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
146
|
Pe-2
|
PQ 51851
|
08:54
|
?
|
Yes
|
10.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
147
|
La-5
|
PQ 60252
|
13:29
|
?
|
Yes
|
11.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
148
|
La-5
|
PQ 41262
|
11:46
|
?
|
Yes
|
12.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
149
|
Jak-1
|
PQ 51341
|
15:51
|
?
|
Yes
|
12.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
150
|
Jak-1
|
PQ 51341
|
16.07
|
?
|
Yes
|
151-173
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
151
|
La-5
|
PQ 51341
|
17:46
|
?
|
Yes
|
15.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
152
|
La-5
|
PQ 51172
|
07:26
|
?
|
Yes
|
15.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
153
|
La-5
|
PQ 51341
|
10:46
|
?
|
Yes
|
17.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
154
|
Pe-2
|
PQ 41452
|
07:29
|
?
|
Yes
|
17.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
155
|
Pe-2
|
PQ 51171
|
08:31
|
?
|
Yes
|
17.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
156
|
Pe-2
|
PQ 41292
|
08:35
|
?
|
Yes
|
20.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
157
|
Jak-1
|
PQ 51541
|
10:55
|
?
|
Yes
|
20.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
158
|
La-5
|
PQ 61771
|
14:49
|
?
|
Yes
|
21.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
159
|
La-5
|
PQ 51543
|
06:24
|
?
|
Yes
|
23.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
160
|
Jak-1
|
PQ 88281
|
15:58
|
?
|
Yes
|
24.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
161
|
LaGG-3
|
PQ 88424
|
06:09
|
?
|
Yes
|
24.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
162
|
Il-2
|
PQ 88322
|
14:58
|
?
|
Yes
|
24.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
163
|
La-5
|
PQ 88413
|
17:57
|
?
|
Yes
|
28.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
164
|
Il-2
|
PQ 40222
|
11:21
|
?
|
Yes
|
29.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
165
|
Jak-1
|
PQ 51894
|
06:49
|
?
|
Yes
|
29.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
166
|
Il-2
|
PQ 60273
|
16:04
|
?
|
Yes
|
29.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
167
|
Il-2
|
PQ 60321
|
16:10
|
?
|
Yes
|
30.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
168
|
Il-2
|
PQ 88734
|
16:51
|
?
|
Yes
|
30.08.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
169
|
Jak-1
|
PQ 88732
|
16:54
|
?
|
Yes
|
01.09.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
170
|
La-5
|
PQ 60342
|
16:51
|
?
|
Yes
|
03.09.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
171
|
LaGG-5
|
WNW Kolontajew
|
10:45
|
?
|
Yes
|
05.09.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
172
|
La-5
|
PQ 41753
|
08:55
|
?
|
Yes
|
05.09.43
|
Oblt
|
6. Staffel
|
173
|
Il-2
|
PQ 41592
|
09:00
|
?
|
Yes
|
\
There he completed his recruit training and on 12 April 1939 began his pilot training. From 9 October 1939 to 15 May 1940, Schmidt attended the Flugzeugführerschule A/B (flight school for the pilot license) at Plauen, Saxony.
??Then he was promoted to Gefreiter (lance corporal) on 1 December 1939. Upon completion, Schmidt attended the Jagdfliegerschule 3 (3rd Fighter Pilot School). He began his training on 17 May 1940 with 2. Staffel (2nd squadron).
After completing these training courses, he was assigned to the 2. Staffel of the Ergänzungs-Jagdgruppe Merseburg on 17 July 1940 for final fighter-pilot preparation.
On 17 July 1940, Schmidt is posted to the 2nd staffel of Ergänzung Jagdgruppe, Magdeburg to undergo his final flight training prior to being posted to an operational fighter unit..
??????????????????????????????????????????
12 August 1940, Gefreiter Schmidt is posted to the 4th Staffel (II. Gruppe) of Jagdgeschwader 52 then operating against the UK in the Battle of Britain and operating from bases in Peuplingues, flying Bf109Es, under command of the future great fighter leader Johannes 'Macki' Steinhoff.
His II. Gruppe of JG 52 was, at that time, engaged in the Battle of Britain and was commanded by Hauptmann (Captain) Erich Woitke.
During 12–18 August 1940, Schmidt flew his first combat missions against England, and then from 19 August to 23 September 1940, defense of the Reich missions over the German Bight.
For a short time (13–26 September 1940), Schmidt served as a pilot in 5./JG 52 (5th squadron) before returning to 4. Staffel on 27 September.
?Although Schmidt would not score a victory during his time flying against the UK, the experience gained during this time obviously had much to do with his future success in the East..
??????On 22 October 1940, Obergefreiter Schmidt is awarded the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) mostly likely for the prescribed amount of "feindefluge" against the UK.
??????9 November 1940... Still without a single victory, Schmidt is awarded the Eiserne Kreuz 1. Klasse (Iron Cross 1st Class).
??????In early November 1940, JG 52 was withdrawn from combat operations and relocated to Germany to recuperate and replenish their aircraft. There, Schmidt was promoted to Unteroffizier (subordinate officer or lance sergeant) on 1 December 1940.
The Geschwader returned to active service where Schmidt flew further defense of the Reich missions over the Netherlands from 27 December 1940 to 8 February 1941.
??????1 April 1941, Unteroffizier Heinz Schmidt is promoted to Feldwebel (sergeant) and became a Fähnrich (officer candidate).
He then again flew missions against England from 9–24 February 1941, and again defensive missions, now over Belgium, from 25 February to 6 June 1941.
??????On 1 May 1941, following 62 operational flights, Unteroffizier Schmidt is awarded the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Silber (Operational flying clasp in Silver for fighters).
??????????????????????????????????????????
22 June 1941, the Invasion of the Soviet Union...
On 9 June 1941, II. Gruppe of JG 52 was recalled from Western Europe in preparation for Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union.
4. Staffel flew to an airfield at Suwalki flying Bf 109Fs, close to the German-Soviet demarcation line. For the invasion, II. Gruppe of JG 52 was subordinated to the Stab (headquarters unit) of Jagdgeschwader 27 (JG 27—27th Fighter Wing).
??26 June 41... At 14:27 pm Feldwebel Heinz "Johnny" Schmidt scores the 1st of his eventual 173 victories, shooting down a Soviet DB-3 (1st victory) South of Varena.
??????Claims Research Verification by Nick Hector
????1st and 2nd claims
26.6.41/0934 and 1427
2 x DB-3s
VVS Northwestern Front. DBA lost 43 DB-3As and DB-3Fs, 207 DBAP suffering the worst losses: 15 in total. 96 DBAP definitely lost one to fighters: Peter Mitrofanovich Babichev was gunner
??On 3 July 41, flying from the II./JG 52 base in Molodelzno (Minsk) Schmidt shoots down a Soviet DB-3 (2nd victory) at 19:03.
On this same day due to the rapid German advance, II./JG52 transfers its base to Sloboda.
??5th claim
5.7.41/0635
DB-3
Day's DB-3 losses include at least one from 96 DBAP. Gunner was Serzhant Nikolay Alekseevich Borzenko KIA, navigator Ivan Semenovich Frolov also KIA as was Ml.Lt. Fedor Sergeevich Shipiko (all from the same crew?) another gunner KIA was Alexander Ivanovich Burenkov (Orsha sector)
??On 12 August 1941, Schmidt crash landed his Messerschmitt Bf 109 F-2 near Saklinja, approximately 70 kilometers (43 mi) into enemy territory, and spent six days evading capture until he was able to get back to the friendly territory, and his unit.
??Schmidt claimed his fifth aerial victory on 25 August 1941, on his 116th combat mission of the war.
??????The next day, he claimed a Polikarpov I-17 fighter and on 27 August 1941, he was promoted to Oberfeldwebel (warrant officer second class).
????On 29 August 1941, Schmidt claims 2x I-15s in just under one minute.
????8th and 9th claims
29.8.41/1510 and 1511
2 x I-153 "Tchaikas" ("I-15s")
192 IAP and 194 IAP, 7 IAK. Legitimate victories: 3 losses. Details pending. The third loss was inflicted by Steinhoff
??On 2 September 1941, II. Gruppe moved to Lyuban, staying there until end-September. From there, the Gruppe flew missions against Shlisselburg, Mga and Leningrad.
Ten days later, on 12 September 1941, he makes his 14th victory claim over an I-18 fighter.
??14th claim
12.9.41/0956
I-18
Day's fighter losses include an I-16 of 69 IAP in the vicinity of Lenintal, pilot KIA
II. Gruppe's subordination to JG 27 ended on 20 October and they came under the command of the Stab of JG 52.
On 4 November, the Gruppe was moved to an airfield at Ruza, approximately 100 km (62 mi) west of Moscow and participated in the Battle of Moscow.
????Schmidt claimed his last two aerial victories of 1941 in late November, a DB-3, followed by a Lavochkin-Gorbunov-Gudkov LaGG-3 fighter, also referred to as a I-301 by the Germans.
??15th Claim
26.11.41/1355
DB-3
There are two possibilities for this one:
Date in error? 96 DBAP lost crew of Dmitry Stepanovich Potapov dated the previous day. Or was this indeed the 4 DBAP crew of Lt. Ivan Stepanovich Yaroslavtsev lost this date?
??16th claim
27.11.41/1304
LaGG-3
12km S of Klin
This was probably the engagement in which 23 IAP’s Lt. Ali Abibulaevich Umerov was KIA (Adolf Riedmeier claimed as well)
??On 22 December 1941, JG 52 was withdrawn from combat operations for a period of recuperation and replenishment and was moved to Jesau near Königsberg, arriving on 16 January 1942.
Following the relocation, Schmidt was posted to the infantry on 19 January 1942.
??????On 1 February 42, Oberfeldwebel Heinz Schmidt is commssioned as an officer and is promoted to the rank of Leutnant (Kriegs Offizier).
This assignment ended on 27 February 1942 and he was then sent to Germany (28 February – 7 May 1942).
The infantry Kampfgruppe to which Schmidt had been assigned, consisted predominantly of ground personnel and a few pilots of II./JG 52. The unit was deployed in ground fighting at Dugino, approximately 200 km (120 mi) west of Moscow, where it suffered heavy casualties.
At Jesau, the Gruppe began upgrading their aircraft to the Bf 109F-4.
??On 14 April 1942, II. Gruppe was ordered to Pilsen, where they finished the conversion. The unit then moved to Wien-Schwechat on 24 April before flying to Zürichtal, present-day Solote Pole, a village near the urban settlement Kirovske in the Crimea.
There II. Gruppe participated in Operation Trappenjagd, a German counterattack during the Battle of the Kerch Peninsula, launched on 8 May 1942.
??On the second day of the operation, 9 May 1942, Schmidt claimed his 17th victory, a Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-1 fighter.
17
9 May 1942 15:28
MiG-1
4./JG 52
??Schmidt goes on to claim 9 more victories during May 1942.
18
11 May 1942 12:39
Pe-2
4./JG 52
19
18 May 1942 12:35
R-5
4./JG 52
20
25 May 1942 09:24
Il-2 4./JG 52
21
25 May 1942 09:25
Il-2 4./JG 52
22
25 May 1942 18:55
MiG-1 4./JG 52
23
26 May 1942 11:37
Il-2 4./JG 52
24
27 May 1942 15:27
Pe-2 east of Petrovskaya 4./JG 52
25
27 May 1942 15:48
Pe-2 southeast of Petrovskaya 4./JG 52
26
28 May 1942 18:38
Il-2 4./JG 52
????????? On 1 June 1942, Schmidt claims his 27th victory over another Il-2 Sturmovik at 1835 hrs.
27
1 June 1942 18:35
Il-2 4./JG 52
??He registers 13 more victory claims during June 1942.
28
19 June 1942 05:36
I-16 4./JG 52
29
22 June 1942 06:25
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
30
22 June 1942 06:37
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
31
22 June 1942 11:49
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
32
22 June 1942 11:53
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
33
23 June 1942 12:52
Yak-1
4./JG 52
34
24 June 1942 07:47
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
35
24 June 1942 07:49
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
36
26 June 1942 10:28
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
37
26 June 1942 10:31
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
38
26 June 1942 13:10
LaGG-3 4./JG 52
39
28 June 1942 16:05
Hurricane
4./JG 52
40
30 June 1942 15:10
LaGG-3 5./JG 52
41
2 July 1942 06:07
LaGG-3 5./JG 52
42
2 July 1942 06:10
LaGG-3 5./JG 52
43
4 July 1942 06:30
LaGG-3 5./JG 52
44
4 July 1942 08:30
LaGG-3 5./JG 52
45
4 July 1942 14:28
Hurricane 5./JG 52
?????????? ??By 4 July 1942, his score had increased to 45 victories and he was presentated the Honour Goblet of the Luftwaffe (Ehrenpokal fur besondere Leistung im Luftkreig) two days later on 6 July 42...
??On 9 July, he claims his 47th victory over a Pe-2 bomber over Lisichansk.
??47th claim
9.7.42/1214
Pe-2
Lisichansk sector
366 BAP. Lt. Ivan Fedorovich Korotkikh KIA, (fate of rest of crew pending)
??He claims another Il-2 on 23 July, 1942 for his 55th victory.
??55th claim
23.7.42/1601
IL-2 Sturmovik
PQ 18523 @ close to ground level
8 VA. Believe this was the engagement in which Mikhail Panfilovich Sapiga of 621 ShAP was KIA (Gefreiter Siegfried Friedrich claimed 2 other IL-2s as well)
?????????? By the end of July 1942, his tally of aerial victories had reached 64 credits.
??????Leutnant schmidt was promoted to Oberleutnant (first lieutenant) on 1 August 1942.
????????As JG 52 continued to fight in the air battles in the advance toward Stalingrad, following his 65th aerial victory, Lt. Heinz Schmidt receives the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold (German Cross in Gold) on 20 August.
??A LaGG-3 and two Il-2s on 21 August, 1942 for his 66th - 68th victories.
??66th claim
21.8.42/0736
I-180
PQ 49243 @ 800m (own airfield: Tusow)
8 VA. Day's fighter losses include Yak-1 of 515 IAP, Starshiy Serzhant Mikhail Ivanovich Beshagin KIA. Yakob Vasilievich Chizhov of 6 IAP KIA. Ml.Lt. Mikhail Ivanovich Shchelbanin of 439 IAP was KIA in a MiG
?????????????? 22 August 42... On the previous day, Lt. Waldmar Semelka of II./JG 52 is shot down and killed by Pe-2's of 86 BAP (Bombardirovochnyy Aviatsionyy Polk).
In return, "Johnny" pays them back on this day by shooting down three of 86 BAP's handful of remaining Pe-2's.
??????70th, 71st and 72nd claims
22.8.42/0917, 0920 and 0922
3 x Pe-2s
86 BAP. Slight overclaiming, only two losses. Includes crew of Mladshiy Leytenant Grigoriy Yakovlevich Velikanndo, Lt. Markel Yakovlevich Aleksandrov and Lt. Vasily Ivanovich Selivyerstov
??All three of the Pe-2's are claimed by Lt. Schmidt (his 70th, 71st and 72nd victories). Russian records indicate three losses to 86 BAP on that day north of Akatov, with Ml. Lt Grigoriy Yakovlevich Velikanndo, Lt. Markel Yakovlevich Aleksandrov and Lt. Vailiy Ivanovich Selivyerst all being reported missing, although Lt. Selivyerst and his crew appear to have been lost to Flak.
????????On 23 August 42, following his 72nd aerial victory, and only three days after receiving the Deutsches Kreuz im Gold, Oberleutnant Schmidt is awarded the Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross).
??Schmidt becomes only the third member of the II. Gruppe Jagdgeschwader 52 to date to receive the Knights Cross, receiving his decoration on the same day as Gerhard Barkhorn.
This day proved more eventful because it also signaled the main German assault for the Battle of Stalingrad, when German forces began breaking out from the bridgehead across the Don River towards Stalingrad.
??Schmidt claims two LaGG-3s, an Il-2 and an I-180 on 23 August, 1942, THE SAME DAY AS HIS KNIGHT'S CROSS AWARD.
??73rd claim
23.8.42/0844
IL-2 Sturmovik
PQ 49141 @ close to ground level
8 VA. Day's losses include 688 ShAP, Ml.Lt. Aleksandr Mikhailovich Chadov KIA
??74th claim
23.8.42/1050
LaGG-3
Stalingrad (PQ 49194) @ 2000m
8 VA. Their LaGG-3 losses this date include Mikhail Arkilovich Seliverstov of 512 IAP KIA (there were 14 claims all up though….)
?????????????????????? The next day, 24 August 1942, Schmidt became an "ace-in-a-day" when he shoots down seven LaGG-3 fighters in combat over the outskirts of Stalingrad, taking his total to 83 aerial victories.
??????????????77th thru 83rd claims
24.8.42/0609, 0612, 0614, 0615, 0842, 0853 and 1201
7 x LaGGs
E of Stalingrad
8 VA. 900 IAP's Yaks definitely in action this date, they lost St.Lt. Vasylii Romanovych Berezhnoy and Ivan Petrovich Saparov (near Pogromnoye) both KIA. 805 IAP lost Ml.Lt. Vasily Filipovich Shmelev KIA this date
??The next day on 25 August 1942, Schmidt registers his 84th - 86th victory claims over a kette of 3x LaGG fighters over Stalingrad .
??????84, 85th and 86th claims
25.8.42/0727, 0735 and 1610
3 x LaGGs
E of Stalingrad
8 VA. Day's fighter losses include Petr Grigorievich Til'chenko of 287 IAP KIA
??On 28 August 1942, Schmidt scores his 90th kill with an early morning pair of 43 IAP fighters.
????89th and 90th claims
28.8.42/0712 and 0721
2 x I-180s
8 VA. Day's Yak losses include Serzhant Viktor Ippolitovich Topachevskiy of 43 IAP KIA
???????????? Two days later on the 30th of August 1942, he claims 2x 618 ShAP Il-2 Sturmoviks to register his 91st & 92nd victory credits.
????91st and 92nd claims
30.8.42/0914 and 0917
2 x IL-2 Sturmoviks
228 ShAD, 8 VA. 618 ShAP lost Serzhant Valentin Filoppovich Titov KIA, 783 ShAP lost Lt. Sabur Muhamedzyanovich Hajrov KIA
??????After his 92nd victory on 30 August 42, in recognition of his service on the Russian Front during the previous years offensive, Schmidt is decorated with the Medaille "Winterschlacht Im Osten 1941/42" (Winter War Medal 1941/42).
??He makes two more claims on 31 August 1942 for his 94th victory.
????93rd and 94th claims
31.8.42/0506 and 0901
2 x LaGG-3s
Stalingrad sector
572 IAP, 864 IAP, 9 GIAP (their losses include Georgy Ivanovich Shabunin KIA) or 18 GIAP
???? ?? ???? On 9 September 1942, Schmidt shot down two Ilyushin Il-2 ground attack aircraft, taking his number of aerial victories to ??.
????100th and 101st
9.9.42
2 x IL-2 Sturmoviks
S of Mozdok
Were these the two IL-2s of 47 ShAP that failed to return this date? SerzhantsVladimir Aleksandrovich Sukhanov and Boris Yakovlevich Stepin both lost
??He was the 21st Luftwaffe pilot to achieve the century-mark
????????On 16 September 42, folllowing his 100th aerial victory, Oberleutnant Schmidt is awarded the Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz Mit Eichenlaub (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross with Oakleaves), making him the 124th receipient of the Oakleaves.
??Schmidt was the second member of II. Gruppe to receive this award and only the fourth recipient from this unit for the entire war.
?????????????????? The following day, on 17 September 1942 over the Mozdok sector, five more LaGG-3s go down in flames, bringing his confirmed victory total to 107.
??????????103rd thru 107th claims
17.9.42/0919, 0925, 1344, 1639 and 1641
5 x LaGG-3s
Mozdok sector
4 VA. Day's Fighter losses include Vladimir Borisovich Provorikhin of 926 IAP, baled out WIA over Mozdok
????His secondment to 5./JG 52 ended on 30 September 1942, and he was sent on a period of extended leave.
Returning in late November on 17 September 1942, he was posted to 6./JG 52, back over Stalingrad, which by this time was now in a desperate defence, after the Soviets had launched Operation Uranus that encircled Axis forces fighting in and near the city.
A LaGG-3 and an Il-2 on 1 December, 1942.
An Il-2 on 2 December, 1942.
Two Il-2s and a LaGG-3 on 8 December, 1942.
?????????????? Schmidt scores three more victories on 10 December 1942, two Il-2s and a Yak-4, to bring his total to 117 confirmed victories.
??115th claim
10.12.42/0812
IL-2 Sturmovik
near Gumrak (PQ 49151) @ 500m
Likely Serzhant Dolberidze of 622 ShAP
??117th claim
10.12.42/0956
IL-2 Sturmovik
5km N of Pitomnik (PQ 39262) @ 200m
622 ShAP. They attacked Pitomnik this day, suffering four losses. The others included Jnr Lt. Goryachev (gunner was Razumnov?). Pilots Kuznetsov (gunner was Kapt. Artemiev) and Opalev forcelanded in no man's land
????????On 12 December 42, after completing 502 operational fighter sorties, Oberleutnant Schmidt recieves the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold mit Anhänger (Operational flying clasp in Gold with pendant for fighters).
??Five days later on 17 December 1942, he claims 2x Yak-1s over Stalingrad for his 120th victory.
????119th and 120th claims
17.12.42/1310 and 1316
2 x Yak-1s
Stalingrad sector
Day's Yak-1 victims over Stalingrad include Starshiy Leytenant Ivan Antonovich Manojlov HSU (postumous), OL and ORB of 774 IAP, KIA
?????????? As the Germans were retreating back to Taganrog and Rostov, he scored his 125th victory on 7 January 1943 over the new La-5 fighter.
??125th claim
7.1.43/1317
La-5 ("LaGG-3")
PQ 28812 @ 400m
3 GIAP. 5 Aircraft lost, 2 KIA and 2 WIA (crew details pending)
?????Eight days later, with 130 victories to his credit, on 15 January 1943 during combat, his Bf 109G-2 (Werknummer 14556—factory number) fighter crashed behind Russian lines after suffering combat engine damage.
? Heinz Schmidt returned to friendly territory after a two-day trek across the frozen Sea of Azov minus one fur-lined flying boot and with a smashed shoulder and dislocated right arm.
Schmidt then spent five days at the field hospital before he was transferred to the Luftwaffen-Lazarett (military hospital) in Berlin, and was then sent to his hometown Reserve-Lazarett (reserve military hospital) in Bad Homburg.
??Following his convalescence, Schmidt returned to the Eastern Front and was briefly assigned to 4. Staffel, where he registers his 130th victory claim over another Il-2 Sturmovik bomber.
??130th claim
12.2.43/1458
IL-2 Sturmovik ("IL-3")
PQ 86691 @ close to ground level
47 ShAP-ChF. Overclaiming, only one loss (versus 3 claims)
???? He was then transferred to 6. Staffel on 23 July 1943 as Staffelkapitän.
At the time of his return, II. Gruppe was based at Mariupol, and fighting in the Kuban bridgehead as part of the Battle of the Caucasus.
??On 27 July 43, Schmidt is transferred to and appointed Staffelkapitän (squadron leader) of 6. Staffel, (II. Gruppe) Jagdgeschwader 52, then based in Nikolayev and flying the Bf 109G.
He was replacing Oberleutnant Helmut Lipfert who had temporarily held this position following the death of Oberleutnant Karl Ritzenberger on 24 May 1943.
?????????? The next day, he claimed his 131st victory, a Bell P-39 Airacobra fighter on 28 July, 1943.
??131st claim
28.7.43/1020
P-39 Airacobra
PQ 76884 @ 1600m
9 GIAP. Lt. Nikolai Georgievich Zhyhuzhin KIA
???? The military situation of Army Group South resulted in splitting the forces of II. Gruppe. All of 6. Staffel and parts of 5. Staffel were relocated to Kutejnykowe, approximately 14 km (8.7 mi) west of Amvrosiivka, on 1 August 1943. This task force was put under the command of Oberleutnant Gerhard Barkhorn.
Two days later, 3 August, Russian forced launched the Belgorod-Kharkov Offensive Operation resulting in another redeployment of JG 52.
??Now based at the Charkow-Rogan airfield, southeast of Kharkov, Schmidt became an "ace-in-a-day" again.
?????????????????? On 3 August 1943, he was credited with five aerial victories, an Il-2, three Yakovlev Yak-1 fighters and a Lavochkin La-5 fighter.
??The very next day, 4 August 1943, he claims 5x more Russian aircraft destroyed in combat, three Yak-1s, a La-5 and an Il-2 (m.H.), for his second Ace-in-a-Day score.
??135th claim
4.8.43/1339
La-5
Belograd sector
Possibly the engagement in which Petr Kucherenko of 302 IAD was KIA
???????????? Two Yak-1 fighters and an Il-2 Sturmovik bomber (m.H.) shot down on 5 August, 1943 brings his total victory credits to 138.
????137 and 138th claims
5.8.43/0814 and 1426
2 x Yak-1s
Belograd sector
One of these was likely 427 IAP, Serzhant Valentin Prokopovich Shalenko KIA
??On 7 August 1943, Schmidt claims another Lavochkin La-5 fighter destroyed for his 144th victory credit.
??144th claim
7.8.43/1828
La-5
PQ 60 834 @ 1100m
Day's La-5 losses include Podpolkovnik Nikolai Pavlovich Ivanov HSU (posthumous), OL, ORB and OAN of 63 GIAP, KIA
???????????? He claims two more victories on 10 August 1943, a Pe-2 and an La-5, for his 146th & 147th victory credits.
??146th claim
10.8.43/0854
Pe-2
PQ 51851 @ 2200m
(Another was claimed by Grumme of JG 51)
81 GBAP, 1 GBAD, 5 VA. At least one loss: Crew of pilot Bogdanov, W/OP Ceiko, navigator's name not mentioned but was WIA. Crew awarded Red Stars
??147th claim
10.8.43/1329
La-5
PQ 60252 @ 1200m
Was this A V Dobrodetskiy HSU of 297 IAP, said to have been KIA in a Taran attack this date?
??On 11 August 1943, the task force was ordered from Charkow-Rogan to Lebedyn. Here it provided fighter protection over the areas of operation between the 8th Army and 4th Panzer Army. This transfer detached the task force from the command of I. Gruppe, to which it had been assigned.
Gerhard Barkhorn, who at the time also served as acting Gruppenkommandeur (group commander), stayed with I. Gruppe. Command of the task force subsequently went to "Johnny" Schmidt.
His parent unit, II./JG 52 was one of the few Luftwaffe fighter units not initially employed over the great battles for Kursk, instead staying in the south based out of Anapa, over the Kuban bridgehead.
?????????? However, recalled to cover the German retreat to Khar'kov and Poltava, Schmidt scored his 150th victory aerial victory the next day, 12 August 1943, after claiming a pair of Yak-1s, (the 14th pilot to reach that score), and continued with 22 more victory claims in August 1943.
????149th and 150th claims
12.8.43/1551 and 1607
2 x Yak-1s
Bogodukhov sector
Possibly the engagement in which 13 IAP, 201 IAD, 10 IAK, 2 VA lost pilot P I Gnido baled out safely
??Three days later on 15 August 1943, another double La-5 kill brings his total confirmed victories to 153.
????152nd and 153rd claims
15.8.43/0726 and 1026
2 x La-5s
Day's La-5 losses include Mladshiy Leytenant S G Balakin of 295 IAD KIA
??????The very next day, on 16 August 43, Schmidt is appointed Staffelkapitan of 6th staffel following the death of his predecessor, Oberleutnant Karl Ritzenberger.
????17 August 1943, Schmidt claims 2x Pe-2 bombers in four minutes to register his 155th & 156th victories.
????155th and 156th claims
17.8.43/0831 and 0835
2 x Pe-2s
18 KBAP, 202 BAD. 4 crews lost. Details pending
(5 claims in total)
??????????Thirteen days later on 30 August 1943, he scores his 168th victory over an Il-2 Sturmovik.
??168th claim
30.8.43/1651
IL-2 Sturmovik
(Hans Waldmann had claimed one earlier that afternoon) One of these claims pertains to 655 ShAP, 1 GShAD, 8 VA. Starshiy Leytenant Kondakov forcelanded safely
???? Schmidt scores three more victories to bring his total to 171 confirmed credits, before his date with destiny on 5 September 1943.
169
30 August 1943 16:54
Yak-1 PQ 34 Ost 88732 6./JG 52
170
1 September 1943 16:51
La-5 PQ 35 Ost 60342 6./JG 52
171
3 September 1943 10:45
La-5 PQ 35 Ost 50113 6./JG 52
??????????????
???????????? On 5 September 1943, Oberleutnant Heinz Schmidt engages and records two more victories over an La-5 and a Il-2 Sturmovik at 9:00 and 10.05 respectively (his 172nd and 173rd victories) in the area of Kotelwa-Senkow, 100km W Charkow, SU.
172
5 September 1943 08:55
La-5 PQ 35 Ost 71741 6./JG 52
173
5 September 1943 09:00
Il-2 m.H. PQ 35 41592 6./JG 52
??????? However, these were his final claims before he was posted as Missing in Action after this aerial combat near Markor, near Kotelva, that day.
?????????? His Bf 109 G-6 aircraft 'Yellow 7' (Werknummer 15903—factory number) was possibly shot down in error by Hungarian fighters operating in the same area.
There appears to be some confusion as to what events transpired that lead to Schmidts death. Hungarian fighters have been possibly blamed for his accidental death or possibly one of the German pilots from his own flight..
Regardless of the circumstances, Schmidt is posted missing in action along with his Bf109G-6 (Werk nummer 15903), Yellow 7.
??At the time of his death, he was the highest-scoring fighter pilot of II. Gruppe.
?Authors Prien, Stemmer, Rodeike and Bock state that the circumstances about his death remain unanswered.
They further speculate that the story about him having been shot down by friendly fighters could be a myth, created to uphold the illusion that he was killed undefeated by the enemy.
??Heinz Schmidt is credited with 173 confirmed victories in 712 combat missions, a tally which by wars end made him the ninth most successful pilot in the star filled ranks of Jagdgeschwader 52 and would have him tied with Emil Lang as the 26th most successful fighter pilot in the Luftwaffe.
At the time of his loss, after the recent death of Max Stotz (189v.) a fortnight earlier in the north, he had become the 3rd highest-scoring ace flying on the Eastern Front (after Walter Nowotny and Günther Rall).
??????He was promoted to Hauptmann (captain) posthumously.
????????????????????????????
??Aircraft flown:
•Bf 109E "Black 3" (1941)
•Bf 109F-2 Werk # 5541 "White 13 + -" (lost 8/12/41)
•Bf 109F-4 "White 4" in 4. Staffel
•Bf 109G-2 Werk # 14556 (lost 1/15/43),
(All four aircraft served in 4./JG-52)
•Bf 109G-6 Wk# 15903 "Yellow 7" (lost 9/5/43) in 6./JG-52
Disclaimer: There are sizeable gaps in Heinz Schmidt’s victory claims and as a result I have (until further research indicates otherwise) taken liberties with the number designations for Schmidt’s victories. Working backwards from the date when he was KIA the numbers can be fairly accurately portrayed however there appear to be sizeable omissions in 1942 and the timeframe after his joining JG52 which might point to where these additional claims can be found. Schmidt has, it appears, always been credited with 173 overall victories and it is with this number in mind that the claims were designated. Should anyone have additional information or take issue with any numbered claims I would be interested in updating the information.
Born:
Schmidt was born on 20 April 1920 in Bad Homburg v.d.H, the son of metal worker Adolf Schmidt. His childhood friends called him "Johnny".
Units:
01.10.38-09.11.38-11.04.39 Flieger-Ersatzabteilung 14 Detmold
10.11.39-07.08.39 3. Kompanie-Ersatzabteilung 72 Detmold
01.10.38-00.00.00 Flugzeugführerschule (M) Buer
01.10.38-00.00.00 Flugzeugführerschule Laucha
01.10.38-00.00.00 Flugzeugführerschule A/B Plauen Schülerkompanie
17.05.40-15.07.40 2./Jagdfliegerschule 3, Stolp-Reitz
17.07.40-11.08.40 2./Erg. Jagdgruppe, Magdeburg
12.08.40-18.08.40 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
19.08.40-12.09.40 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
13.09.40-26.09.40 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 5 Staffel
27.09.40-31.01.42 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
01.02.42-22.07.43 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 4 Staffel
23.07.43-05.09.43 II./Jagdgeschwader 52, 6 Staffel
Rank:
00.00.00 Flieger
01.12.39 Gefreiter
01.10.40 Obergefreiter
01.12.40 Unteroffizier
01.04.41 Feldwebel
01.04.41 K.O.A.
27.08.41 Oberfeldwebel
01.02.42 Leutanant (Kr. O.)
01.08.42 Oberleutnant (Kr. O.)
16.08.43 Staffelkäpitan
Awards:
00.00.00 Flugzeugführerabzeichen (Pilots Badge)
22.10.40 Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class)
09.11.40 Eiserne Kreuz 1. Klasse (Iron Cross 1st Class)
01.05.41 Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Silber (Operational flying clasp in Silver for fighters)
22.08.41 Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold (Operational flying clasp in Gold for fighters)
06.07.42 Ehrenpokal fur besondere Leistung im Luftkreig (Honor Goblet)
20.08.42 Deutsches Kreuz in Gold (German Cross in Gold)
23.08.42 Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross)
30.08.42 Medaille "Winterschlacht Im Osten 1941/42" (Winter War Medal 1941/42)
16.09.42 Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz Mit Eichenlaub (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross with Oakleaves, No. 124)
12.12.42 Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold mit Anhänger (Operational flying clasp in Gold with pendant for fighters)
History:
1930
From Easter 1930, Heinz attended the Realgymnasium—a secondary school built on the mid-level Realschule to achieve the Abitur (university entry qualification)—in Bad Homburg and graduated in March 1938.
1933
26 June 33
In accordance with Third Reich’s desire to control all aspects of citizens life and in particular to indoctrinate the young populace with a fighting spirit for potential future conflict the Hitler Youth branch of the regime becomes the method by which boys receive para-military training. Most are directed to join and thirteen year old Heinz Schmidt is no exception as he enters the Hitler Youth at age 13 and attains the rank of Kameradschaftsführer (Comrade Unit Leader) and learned to fly glider aircraft.
1938
After Schmidt completed his compulsory Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD—Reich Labor Service) with RAD department 6/225 in Heubach/Schlüchtern, he joined the military service of the Luftwaffe with Flieger-Ersatzabteilung 14 in Detmold on 1 October 1938.
1939
Completing his initial recruit training with Flieger-Ersatzabteilung 14 Detmold on
10 November 39
Schmidt is posted to the 3. Kompanie of Ersatzabteilung 72 Detmold to undergo more intensive military training. These early training excercises would begin the gunnery skills which would serve Schmidt so well on the Russian Front.
1 December 39
Flieger Heinz Schmidt receives his first promotion to the rank of Gefreiter.
1940
17 July 1940
Schmidt is posted to the 2nd staffel of Ergänzung Jagdgruppe, Magdeburg to undergo his final flight training prior to being posted to an operational fighter unit..
12 August 40
Training complete Gefreiter Schmidt is ready to join an operational unit and is posted to the 4th Staffel (II. Gruppe) of Jagdgeschwader 52 then operating against the UK in the Battle of Britain and operating from bases in Peuplingues, flying Bf109E's under the command of future “experten” Johannes “Macki” Steinhoff. Schmidt joins the unit at the height of the Battle of Britain. The II. Gruppe of JG 52 was, at that time, commanded by Hauptmann Erich Woitke
12-18 August 40
Schmidt flew his first combat missions against England, and then from 19 August to 23 September 1940, defense of the Reich missions over the German Bight.
13 September 40
Gefreiter Schmidt is briefly transferred to the 5th Staffel of II Gruppe Jagdgeschwader 52.
27 September 40
Gefreiter Schmidt is transferred to the 4th Staffel of II Gruppe Jagdgeschwader 52.
1 October 40
Gefreiter Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Obergrfreiter.
22 October 40
Obergefreiter Schmidt is awarded the Eiserne Kreuz 2. Klasse (Iron Cross 2nd Class) mostly likely for the prescribed amount of "feindefluge" against the UK. It was probably safe to assume at this point that “fledglings” like Schmidt were kept on a fairly short leash until they could develop their gunnery and flying skills.
Early November 40
Jagdgeschwader 52 was withdrawn from combat operations and relocated to Germany to recuperate and replenish their aircraft.
9 November 40
Still without a single victory to his credit Obergefreiter Heinz Schmidt is awarded the Eiserne Kreuz 1. Klasse (Iron Cross 1st Class). Although Schmidt would not score a victory during his time flying against the UK the experience gained against very skilled and seasoned opponents obviously had much to do with his future success in the East.
1 December 40
Obergefreiter Heinz Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Unteroffizier.
Late December 40
Jagdgeschwader 52 returneds to active service where Schmidt flew further defense of the Reich missions over the Netherlands from 27 December 1940 to 8 February 1941.
1941
1 April 41
Unteroffizier Heinz Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Feldwebel.
February 41
Schmidt again flew missions against England from 9–24 February 1941, and again defensive missions, now over Belgium, from 25 February to 6 June 1941.
1 May 41
Following 62 operational flights Feldwebel Schmidt is awarded the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Silber (Operational flying clasp in Silver for fighters). At the time of meeting the criteria for the award he was the rank of Unteroffizier.
22 June 41
Invasion of the Soviet Union. At the time of the opening day of the invasion “Operation Barabarossa” the 4th Staffel of Jagdgeschwader 52 is based in Suwalki flying Bf 109F's close to the German_Soviet demarcation line, II Gruppe was temporarily under the control of Jagdgeschwader 27 as part of Heeresgruppe Mitte.
26 June 41
At 14:27 pm Feldwebel Heinz "Johnny" Schmidt scores the 1st of his eventual 173 victories, shooting down a Soviet DB-3 (1st victory) South of Varena.
3 July 41
Flying from the II./JG 52 base in Molodelzno (Minsk) Schmidt shoots down a Soviet DB-3 (2nd victory) at 19:03. On this same day due to the rapid German advance II./JG52 transfers its base to Sloboda.
5 July 41
DB-3 6:35am
22 August 41
Following 116 operational flights Feldwebel Schmidt is awarded the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold (Operational flying clasp in Gold for fighters).
25 August 41
J-17 at 8:50am
26 August 41
J-17 at 8:56am
27 August 41
Feldwebel Heinz Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Oberfeldwebel.
29 August41
J-15 at 15:10pm and J-15 at 15:11pm
7 September 41
J-18 at 14:35pm
8 September 41
9 September 41
DB-3 at 17:25
11 September 41
J-18 at 7:50am
12 September 41
J-18 at 9:56am
28 October 41
26 November 41
1942
1 February 42
Oberfeldwebel Heinz Schmidt is commssioned an officer and is promoted to the rank of Leutnant (Kriegs Offizier).
6 July 42
Following his forty ninth (49) ? aerial victory Schmidt receives the Ehrenpokal fur besondere Leistung im Luftkreig (Honor Goblet).
1 August 42
Leutnant Schmidt is promoted to the rank of Oberleutnant (Kr. O.)
20 August 42
Following his sixty fifth aerial victory Lt. Heinz Schmidt receives the Deutsches Kreuz in Gold (German Cross in Gold)
22 August 42
On the previous day Lt. Waldmar Semelka of II./JG 52 is shot down and killed by Pe-2's of 86 BAP (Bombardirovochnyy Aviatsionyy Polk) and in return Schmidt pays them back on this day by shooting down three of it's handful of remaining Pe-2's. All three of the Pe-2's are claimed by Lt. Schmidt (his 70th, 71st and 72nd victories).Russian records indicate three losses to 86 BAPon that day north of Akatov with Ml. Lt Grigoriy Yakovlevich Velikanndo, Lt. Markel Yakovlevich Aleksandrov and Lt. Vailiy Ivanovich Selivyerst all being reported missing although Lt. Selivyerst and his crew appear to have been lost to Flak..
23 August 42
Following his 72nd aerial victory and only three days after receiving the Deutsches Kreuz im Gold Oberleutnant Schmidt is awarded the Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross). Schmidt becomes only the third member of the II. Gruppe Jagdgeschwader 52 to date to receive the Knights Cross, receiving his decoration on the same day as Gerhard Barkhorn. This day proved more eventful because it also signaled the main German assault across the Don towards Stalingrad.
30 August 42
In recognition of his service on the Russian Front during the previous years offensive Schmidt is decorated with the Medaille "Winterschlacht Im Osten 1941/42" (Winter War Medal 1941/42).
8 September 42
29 September 42 (97th and 98th victories)
14 September 42 (100th victory)
16 September 42
Following his 100th aerial victory Oberleutnant Schmidt is awarded the Ritterskreuz des Eisernes Kreuz Mit Eichenlaub (Knights Cross of the Iron Cross with Oakleaves), making him the 124th receipient of the Oakleaves. Schmidt was the second member of II. Gruppe to receive this award and only the fourth recipient from this unit for the entire war.
17 September 42 (101st, 102nd, 103rd, 104th and 105th victories)
19 September 42 (106th victories)
1 December 42 (107th and 108th victories)
2 December 42 (109th victory)
8 December 42 (110th, 111th and 112th victories)
10 December 42 (113th, 114th and 115th victories)
12.December 42
After completing 502 operational fighter sorties Oberleutnant Schmidt recieves the Frontflug-Spange für Jäger in Gold mit Anhänger (Operational flying clasp in Gold with pendant for fighters).
17 December 42 (116th, 117th and 118th victories)
18 December 42 (119th victory)
19 December 42 (120th and 121st victories)
20 December 42 (122nd victory)
1943
7 January 43
LaGG-5 (123rd victory)
10 February 43 (124th victory)
11 February 43 (125th and 126th victories)
12 February 43 (127th and 128th victories)
23 April 43 (129th victory)
27 July 43
Schmidt is transferred to the 6th Staffel (II. Gruppe) Jagdgeschwader 52 then based in Nikolayev and flying Bf 109G’s.
28 July 43 (131st victory)
1 August 43
Leutnant Schmidt is promoted in rank to Oberleutnant .
4 August 43 (132nd, 133rd, 134th, 135th and 136th victories)
5 August 43 (137th, 138th and 139th victories)
6 August 43 (140th, 141st, 142nd and 143rd victories)
7 August 43 (144th victory)
8 August 43 (145th victory)
10 August 43 (146th and 147th victories)
11 August 43 (148th victory)
12 August 43 (149th and 150th victories)
13 August 43 (151st victory)
15 August 43 (152nd and 153rd victories)
16 August 43
Schmidt is appointed Staffelkapitan of 6th staffel following the death of his predecessor Oberleutnant Karl Ritzenberger.
17 August 43 (154th, 155th and 156th victories)
20 August 43 (157th and 158th victories)
21 August 43 (159th victory)
23 August 43 (160th victory)
24 August 43 (161st, 162nd and 163rd victories)
28 August 43 (164th victory)
29 August 43 (165th, 166th and 167th victories).
30 August 43
Il-2 m.h and Yak-1 (168th and 169th victories)
1 September 43
LaGG-5 (170th victory)
3 September 43
4 September 43
LaGG-5 (171st victory)
5 September 43
Oberleutnant Heinz Schmidt engages and records two victories over Il-2's at 9:00 and 10.05 respectively (his 172nd and 173rd victories) in the area of Kotelwa-Senkow 100km W Charkow, SU. For Schmidt these would be his final victories as he did not return from this sortie. There appears to be some confusion as to what events transpired that lead to Schmidts death, Hungarian fighters have been possibly blamed for his accidental death or possibly one of the German pilots from his own flight.. Regardless of the circumstances Schmidt is posted missing in action along with his Me109G-6 (Werk nummer 15903), Yellow 7. At the time of Schmidt's death he had made over 700+ fighter sorties and had amassed 173 aerial victories, a tally which by wars end made him the ninth most successful pilot in the star filled ranks of Jagdgeschwader 52 and would have him tied with Emil Lang as the 26th most successful fighter pilot in the Luftwaffe.
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