On April 21, 1918, Captain Manfred von Richthofen, the legendary “Red Baron,” took off on his last mission. Leading his “Flying Circus” near the Somme River in France, the German ace engaged Allied aircraft at low altitude. Despite his famous red Fokker Dr.I triplane’s maneuverability, ground fire from Australian machine gunners struck Richthofen’s aircraft. Severely wounded in his chest, he managed a rough landing in a field near Vaux-sur-Somme before succumbing to his injuries.

At that time, Germany launched its Spring Offensive to gain victories before American forces gained full operational strength. With 80 confirmed aerial victories, the war’s highest tally, Richthofen cemented his position as commander of Jagdgeschwader 1 during World War I. Allied pilots treated him with respect and fear because of his aggressive combat style in his vibrant red airplane.

Allied forces recovered Richthofen’s body with full military honors. Controversy persists over whether Canadian pilot Roy Brown or Australian ground gunners fired the fatal shot. His death demoralized German troops, but it failed to shift the war’s momentum as Allied air superiority grew throughout 1918. His grave was adorned with wreaths, and a simple marker read: “To Our Gallant and Worthy Foe.”

The Red Baron remains aviation’s most iconic figure:

• His kill record stood until WWII.
• The “Flying Circus” became the model for modern fighter wings.
• His death marked the end of chivalric “knights of the air” combat.
• Modern forensic studies confirm the fatal bullet entered from below.