Fritz Rumey
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Fritz Rumey (March 3, 1891 – September 27, 1918) was a German fighter pilot in the First World War. A prewar infantryman, he saw action against the Russians and was decorated with the Iron Cross 2nd class. Subsequently he applied for aviation and completed an observer's course. Later he was accepted for pilot training and was sent to France in early 1917. After a brief period with Jasta Boelcke he went to Jagdstaffel 5 where he found success and fame.
Leutnant Rumey's first victim was a British observation balloon, flamed on July 6 1917. At year's end he was credited with five victories.
With 29 victories Rumey received the coveted Pour le Merite in July. He went scoreless in August but hit his stride in September, scoring 16 kills, a figure only narrowly surpassed by Franz Buchner.
He was killed on September 27, 1918 after he was shot down. His parachute failed to open.
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[edit] References
Norman Franks, et al (1993). "Above the Lines: A Complete Record of the Fighter Aces of the German Air Service, Naval Air Service, and Flanders Marine Corps, 1914-1918." Grub Street, London.