SP(GL)05 Oberst Ralph von Rettberg KC

Rettberg joined ZG 26 in 1937 and was promoted Squadron Commander of 1./ZG 26 on 1 April 1940. Shortly afterwards he was promoted Group Commander II./ZG26 and led it during the Blitzkrieg on France, the Battle of Britain, the Balkans, and in Russia. His Knight`s Cross was awarded on the 14 June 1941 while a Captain and four victories to his name. Early in 1942 with the rank of Wing Commander he was tasked to form the new ZG 2 in Russia. From 12 January 1942 he headed the new ZG 26 based in the Mediterranean area and carrying out home defence duties until late September 1943. After which he was posted to various staff positions within the German airline, and with the 4. Flying Training-Division. Rettberg flew a total of 200 missions and achieved eight aerial victories as well as destroying twelve aircraft on the ground.

Oberst Ralph von Rettberg
Knight`s Cross of the Iron Cross
Hand signed 5in x 7in photograph - numbered and certified on reverse.
Accompanied by matching biography card giving a brief outline of their flying career with the Luftwaffe.
(210 produced)