Aces question

[Marc Garlasco]

So, how did one become an "Ace?" What were the requirments for:

1) Panzer Ace
2) U-Boot Ace
3) Luftwaffe Ace
4) Are there any others?

Marc

[Lee Ragan]

The Germans originally set 10 aerial victories in WW One as the level for "Ace" status in their Air Service. Most countries recognized the level as 5 victories and I believe over time the Germans adopted that level also. Even today, 5 aerial victories is seen as achieveing "Ace" status in the world's air forces. I have no idea what would constitute "ace" status in subs or tanks. This kight not be of much help, but maybe it's a starting point for you.

[III/JG11_Dingus]

If you read the biography of Erich Hartman (352 aerial kills) called The Blonde Knight Of Germany you will find that the term "ACE" changed as the war went on.
Especially for eastern based units. There was a common belief that the VVS Aircraft were inferior and were half the amount of points per kill which were recorded for the awarding of medals.

[Joseph D'Errico]

If you read the biography of Erich Hartman (352 aerial kills) called The Blonde Knight Of Germany you will find that the term "ACE" changed as the war went on.
Especially for eastern based units. There was a common belief that the VVS Aircraft were inferior and were half the amount of points per kill which were recorded for the awarding of medals.

Question, same authors as Fighter General, "The Life of Adolf Galland"
by Raymond F. Toliver, Trevor J. Constable .

Best,
Joe

[Gary B]

Dear Flak 88,

If I remember correctly the word "Ace" was originall used at the turn of the century (1900s) to describe someone who was really good at soemething. It only seemed natural with the advent of flying and WWI that someone who was good at flying/shooting down airplanes was termed an "ace". The term gradually became synonymous with a person who shot down 5 planes. It has also been extended to tanker, submariners etc although the term really just has not stuck as well as it has for pilots.

As has been written in this thread, 5 planes is the typical requirment for an ace status.
Gary B

[Marc Garlasco]

Gary,
Thanks. Funny that the Germans who have numerical requirements for every award are not so specific on this. Saddly, my wife never calls me an ACE...
Marc