Signed Eduard Ritter von Schleich Document Discussing Future Knight’s Cross of the Military Max Joseph Order (Bavaria) Winner Hans Ritter von Adam’s Flying Skills -

 $2,395.00

This is a signed document by Pour le Mérite (PLM) winner Eduard Ritter von Schleich about pilot Hans Ritter von Adam, who had twenty-one confirmed victories. Eduard Ritter von Schleich (1888-1947) was a well-known WWI German Ace. Initially, von Schleich served in the infantry at the outbreak of WWI in August 1914. After being wounded, he requested a transfer to the Imperial German Air Service and began flying two-seat observation planes. Von Schleich was known for his tenacity and dedication. Even after being wounded on a mission, he had his observer tend to his injury mid-flight and then returned to base. In September 1916, he was placed in command of Fliegerschule Nr 1, a position he held until he returned to active flying service a year later. Between September and December 1917, von Schleich achieved an impressive record, leading to his award of the Orden Pour le Mérite in December 1917.

While commanding Jasta 21, von Schleich's close friend was killed in a dogfight. To honor him, von Schleich had his Albatros D.V painted entirely black, with an emblem of the rampant Bavarian Lion against a blue and white checkerboard field. This earned him the nickname “The Black Knight of Germany.” Later, von Schleich replaced his Albatros with a similarly liveried Fokker D.VII, finishing the war with thirty-five confirmed victories and command of JG 4.

Post-war, von Schleich held various aviation and non-aviation jobs. He joined the newly established Luftwaffe in the mid-1930s, eventually rising to the rank of General, although poor health ended his career in November 1944. After WWII, von Schleich was questioned by American authorities for his command roles in Norway and Denmark but faced no charges due to his honorable conduct. He passed away in 1947 at fifty-nine.

Document Details:

This significant document dates back to von Schleich’s tenure as commander of Fliegerschule Nr 1 while he was recovering from wounds. It is an official evaluation of Hans Adam, one of the school’s students. Adam was von Schleich’s observer in May 1916 and attended to von Schleich’s wounds mid-flight. When von Schleich was assigned to command Fliegerschule Nr 1, Adam followed and was evaluated by von Schleich. Adam later joined Jasta 34b, transferred to Jasta 6, and became its commander. Though he did not receive the PLM, he was posthumously awarded Bavaria’s Knight’s Cross of the Military Max Joseph Order, including a knighthood.

The document measures 13″ x 8 1/4″, dated December 14, 1916, and notes its origin from Fliegerschule Nr 1 in Schleissheim. It is handwritten in blue ink, signed by Oberleutnant Schleich before his knighthood, and mentions the school and von Schleich’s position. Two holes punched on the left side indicate it was stored in a binder. This historically significant document would be a prized addition to any aviation collection, bearing the signature of a PLM winner and insights into a future twenty-one victory ace knighted by Bavaria.

Translation of Document Text:

Top of Document: "Fliegerabteilung 1 Schleißheim, 14.12.16."

Main Text: "Beurteilung Lt. H. L. Hans Adam has completed his training as a pilot with exceptional diligence and skill. He has demonstrated a high degree of proficiency in both theoretical and practical aviation knowledge and has shown significant aptitude in this field. Lt. Adam’s performance in flight training and his thorough understanding of aviation tactics have earned him commendation. During his training, Lt. Adam exhibited a strong sense of duty and dedication. He has gained recognition as a highly capable and promising aviator, respected by both his peers and superiors. His conduct and discipline have been exemplary, making him a valuable asset to our military aviation unit. Lt. Adam has a fine character, good moral conduct, and is dedicated to his duties. His handling of aircraft has been proficient, and he is well-prepared for active service."

Signed: "Schleich Oberleutnant and Commander of the Aviation School Schleißheim."

Sources for Historical Context:

• The National WWI Museum and Memorial
• The Pour le Mérite for Military
• The Military Max Joseph Order

This exceptional document offers a unique insight into the early days of military aviation training and the career of two notable WWI aviators, making it an invaluable piece for collectors and historians.