[American and German fighter pilots (Part 1 of 2)]

This two-part recording contains conversations between German and American fighter pilots regarding their military service during World War II. The conversations took place during a goodwill meeting between the American Fighter Aces Association and the Luftwaffe Fighter Pilots’ Association that was held in Germany in May 1961. Excerpts from these recordings were later used in a highlight reel about the event.

Identified speakers in part one include Eugene A. Valencia, Vice President of the American Fighter Aces Association; Jim Brooks, President of the American Fighter Aces Association; Werner Andres, President of the Luftwaffe Fighter Pilots’ Association; German fighter aces George Eder, Walter Krupinski, and Erich Hartmann; American fighter ace Hubert Zemke; and U.S. Air Force officer Raymond F. Toliver. Topics discussed include the Messerschmitt Me 262 and other military aircraft, the point system for aerial victories, and the goodwill meeting itself.

In May 1961, members of the American Fighter Aces Association visited West Germany as part of a goodwill meeting between them and the Luftwaffe Fighter Pilots’ Association. During their week-long visit, they toured German air bases and attended various events, including a war memorial dedication in Geisenheim, Germany. Several moments from the meeting were recorded, such as goodwill gestures and conversations between American and German fighter aces.