Rudolf Schmidt (Major)
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Rudolf "Rudi" Schmidt (15 March 1914 – 23 February 2000) was a highly decorated Major in the Luftwaffe during World War II. He was also a recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross was awarded to recognise extreme battlefield bravery or successful military leadership.
Quick Facts Nickname(s), Born ...
Rudolf "Rudi" Schmidt | |
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Nickname(s) | "Rudi" |
Born | 15 March 1914 Plauen |
Died | 23 February 2000(2000-02-23) (aged 85) Esslingen |
Allegiance | ![]() ![]() |
Service/ | Reichsmarine (1932–35) Kriegsmarine (1935–?) Luftwaffe (?–1945) |
Years of service | 1932–45 |
Rank | Major |
Unit | Jagdgruppe 88 Kampfgeschwader 26 |
Commands held | II./Kampfgeschwader 26 |
Battles/wars | Spanish Civil War World War II |
Awards | Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross |
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Despite being half Jewish, or Mischling under the Nuremberg Laws, Schmidt enlisted in the Luftwaffe and served with distinction.[1][2]