Erich Handke

Erich Handke (2 November 1920 – 11 November 1987) was a highly decorated Oberfeldwebel 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. During his career he participated in 129 missions as a radio operator. He served as a radio operator with Hauptmann Josef Kraft, Major Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer, and Major Martin Drewes all who were decorated with the Oak Leaves or higher.

Awards and decorations

 * Aviator badge
 * Front Flying Clasp of the Luftwaffe in Gold
 * Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe (17 January 1944)
 * Iron Cross (1939)
 * 2nd Class
 * 1st Class
 * German Cross in Gold
 * Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on 27 July 1944 as Fahnenjunker-Feldwebel and Bordfunker (radio operator) in the IV./Nachtjagdgeschwader 1