Rudolf Rademacher

Rudolf "Rudi" Rademacher (born 19 June 1913 in Lüneburg, killed in flying accident 13 June 1953 in Lüneburg) was a German World War II fighter ace and 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.

"Rudi" Rademacher was credited with 126 victories in over 500 combat missions. 90 of his victories were claimed over the Eastern front, including 21 Il-2 Stormoviks. At least 8 of his victories claimed over the Western front were gained flying the Me 262 jet fighter. Rademacher was killed in a glider crash at Lüneburg on 13 June 1953.

Awards

 * Iron Cross (1939) 2nd and 1st class
 * German Cross in Gold on 25 March 1943 as Oberfeldwebel in the 3./JG 54
 * Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 30 September 1944 as Leutnant and pilot in the 1./JG 54