People

When discussing the people of World War II aviation, the aces of various countries often come to mind first, as do famous images—such as Hitler surrounded by Luftwaffe officers at his Alpine residence. Yet countless others took part in this vast endeavor. They were warriors and young men, occasionaly women, who loved aviation and their countries. Sometimes driven by enthusiasm, sometimes simply swept up by the great events of their time.

Many fought for their homelands from abroad. Some fought against racism. Flying women fought the enemy. This place also remembers the innumerable young men from all nations who lost their lives on their first, second, or third sortie. Their names are, in principle, known—but their stories most often are not.

Pilots, gunners, mechanics, designers, test pilots, factory workers, instructors—they all are World War II aviation.