Aviation Novice
How did one become a flyer in a Bavarian unit, as opposed to Prussian? Could a Bavarian man serve in the Prussian navy? If so, why did the Air Service have both Prussian and Bavarian wings, but the Navy only had Prussian? How can you tell the difference between a Navy seaplane badge and a landplane badge? In the Army, a winged propeller on the shoulder board signified attachment to an air unit - what did the Navy use?
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Mike:
All these questions (except the following) are answered in Neal W. O'Conners' magnum Opus "The Aviation Awards of Imperial Germany and the Men Who Won Them". Its a six part series and one of the best medal books I have ever bought. I just last week purchased the ultra rare Prussian volume for a mere $25-in mint condition! The photos are so beautiful as to make one weep.
Lots of Bavarians joined the Navy. The Navy was an imperial service, whereas the Army was "federalized". That is, units still owed a geographic allegience and a political sub-allegience to their home states (Lander). So, Bavaria, being a Kingdom exercising significant autonomy (and it still does) had infantry, artillery, cavalry and air units whose titular head was ther King of Bavaria.
In 1914, one Adolf Hitler, an Austrian by birth, had to petition the King of Bavaria personally, so as to be allowed to enlist in the Bavarian infanry, which was part of the German Army.
Cheers,
JeMc. -
Mr. McCulloh,
Thank you for your insight, and for the book reference! Your help is much appreciated.
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JeMc,
I was unable to locate Volumes I & II of the series you mentioned, until I read a post you made in another section. With that link, I was able to purchase Volume II - Prussia - for $38!
Thank you!Comment
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