'Richthofen's Circus': Jagdgeschwader Nr 1

Description

Undoubtedly the most famous of any nation's aviation units in World War 1 was the legendary Jagdgeschwader Nr 1, or 'The Flying Circus' as its respectful foes labelled it. Germany's first true fighter wing, it would always be associated with its first commander, the charismatic and revered Manfred von Richthofen. JG 1 was formed in July 1917, and for sixteen months the unit's young pilots in their colourful aircraft battled for aerial dominance of the Western Front. From its ranks emerged many of Germany's most successful airmen, including the Red Baron's brother Lothar; Ernst Udet; Werner Voss; Erich Loewenhardt and Hermann Goering. This book charts the World War I experiences of JG 1.

Greg VanWyngarden has a lifelong interest in World War 1 aviation, and has been particularly active in deciphering the colours and markings that decorated the various German fighters flown by the leading aces. This is his third book for Osprey, having co-authored Aircraft of the Aces 40: 'Fokker Dr I Aces' and Aircraft of the Aces 53: 'Fokker D VII Aces Part 1' with Norman Franks. Berkshire-based Harry Dempsey is a talented profile artist who specialises in fighter aircraft of World War 1. He has illustrated all of Osprey's World War 1 Aircraft of the Aces titles to date.

"With 125 photos and over 40 color profiles, the book is very well illustrated and certain to please modelers. The appendices and index enhance its use as a reference... Five stars." --Barrett Tillman, The Aerodrome